SA vs NZ: Can South Africa Finally Break Their World Cup Curse?
South Africa’s journey in World Cups is often a tale of heartbreak. From the rain-affected clash against England in 1992 to the dramatic loss to India in Barbados in 2024, disappointment has been a recurring theme. But is this time different? After a dominant run of seven wins from seven matches in the T20 World Cup, coach Shukri Conrad is embracing the tag of “favourites” as they prepare for a crucial semi-final showdown against New Zealand in Kolkata on Wednesday.
A Shift in Momentum?
“I’m glad that we’re favourites because I always felt that as a South African team, you want to be able to play as a favourite because it’s easy being an underdog,” Conrad stated. This sentiment reflects a growing confidence within the team, fueled by their recent success, including the World Test Championship win against Australia at Lord’s last June. But can they finally translate this momentum into a World Cup victory?
Learning from Past Mistakes
The scars of past failures are still fresh. Captain Aiden Markram remembers vividly the pain of the 2024 final defeat, where the Proteas fell short by just seven runs despite needing only 26 from the last 24 balls. Eight players from that squad are now part of the current team, bringing valuable experience and a renewed determination.
“The guys are richer for that experience,” Conrad explained. “They have learned so much about themselves and Aiden has been fantastic both with bat in hand and as a leader.”
Markram’s Transformation
A key factor in South Africa’s success has been the resurgence of Aiden Markram. After struggling in the 2024 tournament, he’s now the third-highest run-scorer with 263 runs at a strike-rate of 175.16. Former captain Faf du Plessis attributes this improvement to Markram’s experience in the Indian Premier League (IPL).
“He opened for Lucknow Super Giants and the IPL almost demanded you needed to play in that way in order for you to keep your place,” Du Plessis told Cricinfo. “It was obviously the Impact-Sub [rule] and the way the game was moving. As an opener, you couldn’t play the old-school way anymore.”
A Well-Rounded Performance
South Africa’s strength lies in their all-round performance. They boast the highest batting run-rate and the highest number of balls per dismissal in the tournament. Their middle-overs run-rate is also the best among all teams. Equally impressive is their bowling attack, which has taken more powerplay wickets than any other side.
Facing the Challenge Ahead
Despite their dominant form, South Africa faced a tough test against Afghanistan, requiring two super overs to secure victory. Conrad acknowledges the significance of that match, stating, “The Afghanistan game was massive in many respects because it could so easily have not gone our way and the pressure is really on us against New Zealand.”
Addressing the Concerns
One question mark remains: what happens if the top order falters? The Proteas also lack a wrist spinner, relying instead on left-arm finger spinner Keshav Maharaj and part-time off-spinner Markram. However, Conrad remains confident in his team’s ability to adapt and overcome any challenges.
“You can only pretty much cut your coat according to your cloth size and we don’t have wrist spinners or mystery spinners,” Conrad said. “Our bowling attack was fashioned in such a way that we’ve got wicket-taking options.”
Can They Go All the Way?
Former England captain Michael Vaughan believes South Africa is ready. “The South Africa side look ready,” Vaughan said. “I do think that World Test Championship final victory at Lord’s has given them that boost.” The path to victory won’t be easy, but for the first time in a long time, South Africa has a genuine chance to break their World Cup curse.
Match Details
Men’s T20 World Cup: South Africa v New Zealand
4 March, 13:30 GMT
Live ball-by-ball commentary on BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra, BBC Sounds and the BBC Sport website and app, plus live text with in-play clips and highlights.
