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The runners-up of the T20 World Cup 2026, New Zealand, are all set to host South Africa for the five-match T20I series starting from March 15.
The series is coming at a really important time for both teams, as they keep shaping their squads in the shortest format. Both sides have grown into strong T20I teams over the years now and will look to take it further up before the start on the IPL 2026
South Africa banking on young talent
South Africa will be led by experienced spinner Keshav Maharaj, who got the responsibility to lead a side featuring several young players.
One player to watch will be Tony de Zorzi. The left-handed batter has been around the Proteas setup for some time but is still looking to cement his place properly. The series could be a good chance for him to gain more experience and prove his value in the T20 format.
In the bowling department, South Africa rely on the experience of Maharaj’s spin along with the pace of Gerald Coetzee, who has quickly made a name for himself as an aggressive fast bowler.
New Zealand looking to test combinations
For New Zealand, the series provides another opportunity to fine-tune their combinations. The team recently fell short in the World CUp final after losing to India, and management is keen to build a stronger unit going forward.
Led by Mitchell Santner, the hosts expected to test bench strength while still keeping a core group of experienced players in the squad.
The side features some prominent names that were part of the World Cup squad. It will give opponents for young players who have experienced exposure.
Full schedule
- March 15 – 1st T20I – Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui
Start time: 11:45 AM IST | 6:15 AM GMT | 7:15 PM Local - March 17 – 2nd T20I – Seddon Park, Hamilton
Start time: 11:45 AM IST | 6:15 AM GMT | 7:15 PM Local - March 20 – 3rd T20I – Eden Park, Auckland
Start time: 11:45 AM IST | 6:15 AM GMT | 7:15 PM Local - March 22 – 4th T20I – Sky Stadium, Wellington
Start time: 11:45 AM IST | 6:15 AM GMT | 7:15 PM Local - March 25 – 5th T20I – Hagley Oval, Christchurch
Start time: 11:45 AM IST | 6:15 AM GMT | 7:15 PM Local
When and where to watch
The New Zealand vs South Africa T20I series will be broadcast on the Sony Sports Network on television in India.
For online viewers, the matches will be available on the SonyLIV and FanCode apps and websites.
Squads
South Africa: Keshav Maharaj (c), Tony de Zorzi, Jason Smith, Jordan Hermann, George Linde, Wiaan Mulder, Connor Esterhuizen (wk), Prenelan Subrayen, Dian Forrester, Gerald Coetzee, Ottneil Baartman, Lutho Sipamla, Rubin Hermann, Andile Simelane, Nqobani Mokoena.
New Zealand: Mitchell Santner (c), Devon Conway (wk), Tim Robinson, Tom Latham, James Neesham, Josh Clarkson, Bevon Jacobs, Nathan Smith, Kyle Jamieson, Lockie Ferguson, Ish Sodhi, Cole McConchie, Dane Cleaver, Nick Kelly, Ben Sears, Katene Clarke, Jayden Lennox, Zakary Foulkes
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