Aiden Markram will be central to South Africa’s hopes when they face New Zealand in the first semi-final of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup at Eden Gardens. The Proteas enter the knockout clash unbeaten, carrying a strong historical record against the Black Caps in the tournament.

Markram has redefined his role at the top of the order this World Cup, striking at an impressive 175.16 — the highest among regular openers who have faced over 100 balls. Known earlier as a stabilising middle-order batter, he has now embraced an aggressive powerplay approach, capitalising on fielding restrictions and setting the tempo early.

His transformation has been influenced in part by franchise cricket and the ‘Impact Player’ rule in the Indian Premier League, which encouraged top-order batters to play with greater freedom. As captain, Markram’s intent has shaped South Africa’s unbeaten run, balancing calculated risk with control. Against a disciplined New Zealand side, his ability to dictate terms from the first over could prove decisive in determining who advances to the final.