Speaking after the match, Markram said the pitch looked good for batting and felt South Africa could have posted a much bigger total than their eventual 169/8. He noted that the team might have benefited from accelerating earlier in the innings and aiming for a score around 190.
Despite the loss ending South Africa’s unbeaten run in the tournament, Markram praised his team for their overall performance throughout the competition. He said the squad would reflect on the defeat but remained proud of the effort shown by the players during the campaign. According to him, it was simply an unfortunate evening for the side.
Markram also credited the New Zealand bowling attack for putting early pressure on the Proteas. He explained that the ball was not coming onto the bat smoothly, with some deliveries stopping on the pitch and others staying low, making scoring difficult and eventually leading to wickets under pressure.
In the chase, New Zealand’s openers Finn Allen and Tim Seifert dominated from the start. Allen smashed a blistering 100 off 33 balls*, while Seifert contributed 58 off 33, putting the South African bowlers under immense pressure.
The BlackCaps continued their aggressive approach even after the powerplay and comfortably chased down the target in just 12.5 overs, losing only one wicket to seal a comprehensive victory and secure their place in the final.
