New Zealand Women’s captain Amelia Kerr and veteran all-rounder Sophie Devine delivered outstanding performances as the White Ferns defeated South Africa Women by 80 runs in the first of the five-match T20I series on March 15 at Mount Maunganui.
After choosing to bat first, New Zealand posted a strong total of 190/7 in 20 overs. Captain Amelia Kerr played a stunning knock of 78 runs from 44 balls, which included 11 boundaries and two maximums at a strike rate of 177.2. Opener Georgia Plimmer gave the team a solid start with 63 runs off 44 balls and shared an important 146-run partnership with Kerr. Devine (12), Brooke Halliday (13), and Maddy Green (10) also made useful contributions to push the total close to 200.
South Africa’s bowlers struggled to control the innings. Masabata Klaas and Nadine de Klerk picked up two wickets each, while Nonkululeko Mlaba and Ayabonga Khaka chipped in with one wicket each.
While chasing 191, South Africa struggled throughout their innings. Tazmin Brits was the team’s top scorer with 29 runs, while Kayla Reyneke remained unbeaten on 24 runs, but wickets kept falling at regular intervals.
Devine led New Zealand’s bowling attack with four wickets, conceding only 12 runs in four overs. Jess Kerr added two more wickets and conceded 13 runs. New Zealand eventually restricted South Africa to 110/7 in their 20 overs.
Kerr was adjudged the Player of the Match as the second T20I is scheduled for March 17 in Hamilton.
For latest sports updates: Follow RevSportz