Kolkata, March 4 – South Africa’s left-handed batter David Miller said his team is excited and ready to continue their unbeaten campaign against New Zealand in their 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup semi-final at Eden Gardens on Wednesday.
South Africa have won all five of their previous meetings against New Zealand in the competition’s history. However, the two teams have never faced each other in the knockout stages of the tournament. In 50-over ICC events, New Zealand have an advantage, having won a quarter-final and two semi-finals against South Africa.
"Obviously, we are very excited about the way we have played this campaign, and I think for us, it’s a new opportunity, a new start, as we know, to continue with the good things that we have been doing.
"Each individual has been preparing really well and putting up good performances. If you look at the campaign so far, everyone has contributed at different stages, which is always a positive sign. Going into this game, it’s another chance to do something really special.
"So, I think it's just about making sure that we get into the game as quickly as possible and adapt to the conditions as we go along. Everyone is excited and ready to go," said Miller in a pre-match chat with the broadcasters.
Though South Africa, just like New Zealand, have yet to play a World Cup game in Kolkata, Miller said they will rely on their previous experience playing at the venue. "We have played here. Many of the guys have played here. So, it can generally be a high-scoring game. There is also some dew around sometimes, so that is something we have taken into consideration.
Asked about his assessment of the pitch, Miller said, "It should be a good wicket. As I said, let's adapt as we start and try to understand the conditions as quickly as possible. But I think it will be a good wicket. So, it’s just about making sure that we do whatever we do first, we do it really well, and try to put pressure on the opposition as quickly as possible."
