Marco Jansen scripted history in Kolkata’s electric atmosphere during T20 World Cup 2026’s first semi-final. The South African all-rounder remained unbeaten on 55 from 30 balls at number seven against New Zealand, claiming the unique record as the first from his country to hit a fifty in a knockout stage from position seven or below.
Jansen joined an elite club, becoming only the second ever after Michael Hussey’s iconic 60* in 2010. With five sixes and two fours, his innings featured a vital 73-run sixth-wicket partnership with Tristan Stubbs (29), lifting South Africa from dire straits to 169/8.
Opting to bowl first paid early dividends for New Zealand, as South Africa lost two wickets in over two. Markram and Brevis added 43, but a collapse left them at 77/5 in 10.2 overs. Jansen’s timely aggression changed the narrative.
Bowling figures reflected a team effort from the Kiwis: two wickets each for Henry, McConchie, and Ravindra; singles for Ferguson and Neesham. Jansen’s knock wasn’t just numbers—it was a testament to resilience, breathing life into South Africa’s campaign and captivating fans worldwide.
This record could inspire future lower-order fireworks, proving depth is key in modern T20.