New Zealand secured a dominant 92-run win over South Africa in the final T20I at Hagley Oval to seal the five-match series 4-1.
Amelia’s century powers NZ to 4-1 series win over SA/ Credit: White Ferns/X
New Zealand sealed the five-match T20I series against South Africa with a commanding 92-run win at Hagley Oval, taking the series 4-1. The hosts were powered by a sensational all-round performance from Amelia Kerr, who scored 105 off just 55 balls and picked up 2 crucial wickets.
Sent in to bat, New Zealand posted 194/6 in 20 overs, their fourth-highest T20I total. Kerr’s blistering innings, featuring 19 fours and a six, anchored the innings, while Georgia Plimmer (27) and Brooke Halliday (26) provided solid support. Late contributions from Maddy Green and others helped push the total near the 200-run mark. Despite taking three wickets, Ayabonga Khaka couldn’t halt New Zealand’s momentum.
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South Africa’s chase never got going as wickets fell at regular intervals. Reduced to 40/4 in the powerplay, the visitors were under constant pressure. Annerie Dercksen top-scored with 23, but Sune Luus (13) and Laura Wolvaardt (9) failed to build meaningful partnerships, leaving South Africa struggling against a disciplined New Zealand attack.
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Kerr returned with the ball, picking up 2 wickets, while Sophie Devine struck twice to dismantle the middle order. Lea Tahuhu and Flora Devonshire also made crucial breakthroughs, keeping South Africa on the back foot throughout.
The visitors were eventually bowled out for 102/9 in 20 overs, handing New Zealand a comprehensive 92-run victory, marking South Africa’s third-worst loss by runs in T20Is.
Brief Scores:
New Zealand 194/6 in 20 overs – Amelia Kerr 105, Georgia Plimmer 27, Brooke Halliday 26; Ayabonga Khaka 3-32, Tumi Sekhukhune 3-32
South Africa 102/9 in 20 overs – Annerie Dercksen 23, Sune Luus 13, Laura Wolvaardt 9; Lea Tahuhu 3-26, Amelia Kerr 2-6
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