South Africa’s pursuit of a T20 World Cup final spot has hit a significant roadblock at Eden Gardens, as New Zealand’s bowlers tore through their top order in a high-stakes semi-final. Despite entering the contest as firm favourites with a flawless tournament record, the Proteas find themselves in a precarious position at 79/5 after 10.4 overs.

The drama began in the second over when New Zealand all-rounder Cole McConchie produced a sensational spell, claiming two wickets in consecutive deliveries. Quinton de Kock was dismissed for 10, while Ryan Rickelton suffered a golden duck, immediately putting the South African camp on the defensive.

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Aiden Markram, the South African captain, was handed a reprieve when Rachin Ravindra dropped a routine catch. However, Ravindra later made amends by dismissing Markram for 18. Dewald Brevis provided the only significant resistance, top-scoring with a breezy 34 off 27 balls, before falling to James Neesham.

New Zealand’s disciplined attack has been led by McConchie (2/9) and Ravindra (2/15), who have effectively stifled the Proteas’ scoring rate. Tristan Stubbs and Marco Jansen now face the daunting task of rebuilding the innings and defending South Africa’s historic 5-0 T20 World Cup winning streak against the Black Caps.

The winner of this encounter will progress to the final in Ahmedabad on 8 March.(With inputs from Agencies)