Proteas outclassed by New Zealand, miss out on WC final

New Zealand powered to a dominant nine-wicket win over the Proteas to march into the T20 World Cup final on Wednssday night in Kolkata, India.

In a scintillating semi-final match at Eden Gardens, the Black Caps produced a clinical performance to snap the Proteas’ unbeaten streak in the tournament.

After restricting South Africa to 169/8, New Zealand stormed to 173/1 in 12.5 overs to seal a commanding win.

Opener, Finn Allen, was a man on a mission as he scored an unbeaten 100 off just 33 balls, the fastest century in Men’s T20 World Cup history.

Earlier, Proteas all-rounder Marco Jansen struck an unbeaten 55 off 30 balls to give South Africa a fighting chance after they slumped to 77/5.

However, New Zealand ultimately outplayed the Proteas in all departments and will now advance to the final, where they will face either India or England on Sunday.

It will be New Zealand’s second appearance in a T20 World Cup final, having previously reached the showpiece clash in 2021.

🚨 MATCH RESULT 🚨

A memorable campaign draws to a close for #TheProteas in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. 🇿🇦🏆

New Zealand secure victory by 9 wickets in the first Semi Final at Eden Gardens. 🏏#Unbreakable #T20WorldCup pic.twitter.com/sTW1HNMyOG

— Proteas Men (@ProteasMenCSA) March 4, 2026

Written by: Ntsako Mukhari