New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner is targeting a "perfect game" in the T20 World Cup semi-final against South Africa. The in-form South Africans remain the tournament's only unbeaten team, having defeated New Zealand by seven wickets in the group stage. Santner acknowledged the previous loss but believes familiarity with the opponent allows for strategic adjustments. He noted that both teams likely know each other's game plans well.
New Zealand, having played their Super Eights games in Sri Lanka, are preparing for the Eden Gardens pitch and will need to adapt quickly. Santner stated that reading the conditions fastest will be crucial in the contest against a balanced South African side. Both teams are aiming for their first men's white-ball World Cup title.
Fast bowler Matt Henry is set to rejoin the squad, but his availability for the semi-final remains unconfirmed.