South Africa vs New Zealand pitch report, weather forecast and reserve day rules if rain washes out semi-final

South Africa and New Zealand will meet in the first semi-final of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 at Eden Gardens in Kolkata on March 4, with pitch conditions, weather forecasts and rain contingency rules all likely to influence the high-stakes encounter.

SA vs NZ Pitch Report of Eden Gardens Stadium

The pitch at Eden Gardens is expected to favour batters, with ample scoring opportunities for both sides. Earlier in the tournament, teams have posted totals in excess of 200 runs on this surface, indicating that stroke play from the outset could be effective.

As the match progresses, particularly during the middle overs between the seventh and fifteenth, spinners may find some assistance if the surface becomes slightly dry under the lights.


Also Read: South Africa vs New Zealand 1st Semi-Final Live Streaming: When and where to watch SA vs NZ T20 World Cup 2026 clash

South Africa vs New Zealand dew factor

Heavy dew is forecast later in the evening, which could make it difficult for bowlers, especially spinners, to grip the ball properly. The dew factor may provide a slight advantage to the side chasing a target.

SA vs NZ Kolkata Weather Forecast Update Today

Weather conditions are expected to be warm and largely dry on March 4. Temperatures may range between 31°C and 33°C during the day before dropping to around 25°C to 27°C in the evening.

The day is likely to begin with clear or slightly hazy sunshine, with very little chance of rain. Humidity is expected to remain moderate, and winds are forecast to be light, creating favourable conditions for a full match under lights.

Also Read: South Africa vs New Zealand, 1st semi-final playing 11, check full squads and head to head record in T20

Who advances if match is abandoned due to rain?

If persistent rain results in no play being possible on both the scheduled day and the reserve day, the team that finished higher in the Super 8 standings will advance to the final.

South Africa topped their Super 8 group with six points, while New Zealand qualified with three points.

Minimum overs required in semi-final

Unlike the group stage and Super 8 matches, where five overs per side were sufficient to constitute a result, the knockout stage requires a minimum of 10 overs per team.

To facilitate completion on the scheduled day, match officials have provided an additional 90 minutes of extra time on March 4.

Reserve day rules explained

If play is interrupted and cannot be completed on the scheduled day, the reserve day will be used. The match will resume from the exact point at which it was halted, with scores, wickets and overs carried forward rather than restarting.

The reserve day has an earlier start time of 3:00 PM IST and allows for up to 120 minutes of extra time to maximise the chances of a result.