NZ vs SA Tri-series: After winning the opening ODI match of the tri-series featuring the likes of New Zealand, South Africa, and Pakistan, the Kiwis advanced to their second game against South Africa in Lahore.
The first match marked a stellar hundred from Glenn Phillips and a decent pullback from New Zealand bowlers, which gave them a formidable win over the host side. Coming into this match, the Kiwis looked comfortable with the conditions of the track and hence came in with an unchanged squad.
South Africa also could not bring their complete Champions Trophy squad; hence, they lack competent players like Kagiso Rabada, Marco Jansen, Heinrich Klaasen, and David Miller. Despite the team consisting of several inexperienced stars, they outperformed the Kiwi bowling lineup.
Table of Contents
NZ vs SA Tri-series: Matthew Breetzke’s stunning hundred on debut
A South African youngster who has made considerable contributions to the proteas over the other two formats finally made his debut in the longer white-ball format. A remarkable debut worth remembering for decades, as Breetzke showed class when he smashed a breathtaking 150 and took the South African innings to a stable 300+ total.
NZ vs SA Tri-series: Conway and Williamson put on a crucial 2nd wicket partnership
Devon Conway, the left-handed batter, returned to the New Zealand side as he replaced the youngster Rachin Ravindra, who faced a backlashing injury in the first ODI when he misfielded a ball that hit him on the forehead, which ruled Ravindra out of contention for the series and is doubtful for the Champions Trophy as well.
Devon Conway played the most stellar hand as he played a well-faced inning of 97 runs alongside the skipper Kane Williamson, who scored a stunning 133 runs off just 113 balls, as New Zealand chased the 305-run total with ease.
Kane Williamson was named the Man of the Match, as he remained not out in finishing the match alongside last match’s hero Glenn Phillips.
New Zealand has a lead in the series with 2 wins, and the final will be played between the Blackcaps and the team that wins the next match between Pakistan and South Africa.
ALSO READ: 5 new signings for CSK who can be match winners in IPL 2025
