A place in the final awaits, where either the co-hosts and defending champions, India, or England will be waiting. South Africa, the 2024 runners-up, head into the clash brimming with confidence. They remain unbeaten in the tournament and have been widely tipped as favourites, but they are under no illusions about the challenge that lies ahead.

The Proteas beat New Zealand by seven wickets earlier in the group stage, but they are expecting a far sterner test this time around. Inside the camp, the message is clear: reset, refocus, and take it one ball at a time over the next 40 overs.

History, however, adds an edge to the contest. South Africa has never beaten New Zealand in a World Cup knockout match, despite dominating them in round-robin encounters.

Aiden Markram and Mitchell Santner. Photo: Cricinfo

What will encourage the Proteas is their balance. Throughout the tournament, both the batters and bowlers have stepped up, delivering complete team performances when it has mattered most.

Captain Aiden Markram says the squad is relishing the occasion, but understands that past performances count for little in a high-stakes semi-final.

“Yeah, I wish cricket was that easy – they’re a quality team, New Zealand,” said Markram.

“They’ve proven that over many years. We had a good run against them in the group stages, but both teams have played a lot of cricket since then, so it’s a completely fresh start. The fact that it’s a semi-final makes it even more exciting.

“It’s not as simple as just repeating that performance. There are a lot of variables in this game, but the guys are really excited for the opportunity to play against a strong side like New Zealand, and we’ll look to bring our best again.”

Markram also highlighted the significance of playing at the iconic Eden Gardens – a venue steeped in history for South African cricket.

Marco Jansen. Photo: Cricinfo

“It’s a tricky one. For the guys who were part of that test series win here, it was incredibly special,” he added.

“But there are also players in this squad who weren’t involved, who watched from back home and saw South African cricket moving in a really positive direction. Now they have the chance to be part of something special at a World Cup.

“So from a confidence and belief point of view, it definitely helps – even though the personnel has changed.”

Wednesday’s eagerly anticipated semi-final between South Africa and New Zealand at Eden Gardens gets underway at 15:30.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek sm