2nd WODI: Amelia Kerr’s unbeaten 179 powers New Zealand to record Women’s ODI chase against South Africa

In the second ODI of the three-match series at Basin Reserve, skipper Amelia Kerr produced a batting masterclass as New Zealand pulled off the highest successful run chase in women’s ODI history, overhauling a daunting 347-run target to defeat South Africa by two wickets and level the series 1-1.

Kerr remained unbeaten on a sensational 179 off 139 balls, guiding the White Ferns to 350/8 in 49.4 overs as they surpassed India’s previous record for the highest successful chase in women’s ODIs.

Advertisement

Chasing 346/6, New Zealand suffered an early setback with the dismissal of Suzie Bates, but Kerr ensured the required rate stayed within reach throughout the innings. She first rebuilt with Georgia Plimmer (23) in a 52-run stand before combining with Isabella Gaze (68 off 48) in a match-shaping 120-run partnership that swung momentum firmly New Zealand’s way.

Despite wickets falling at regular intervals in the final phase, Kerr stayed composed and continued to find crucial boundaries. With 11 required off the final over, she took charge against Nadine de Klerk, striking three boundaries to seal a historic win with two balls remaining.

Earlier, South Africa posted a strong 346/6 after batting first. Captain Laura Wolvaardt led from the front with 69, while Anneke Bosch starred with a fluent 91 off 90 balls. Sune Luus (40) and Chloe Tryon (52*) provided the late push to take the total past 300.

New Zealand’s bowlers toiled hard, with Bree Illing claiming three wickets to prevent an even bigger total.

Despite the massive target, Kerr’s brilliance turned the contest dramatically, eclipsing India’s previous record chase from the ICC Women’s World Cup final in Navi Mumbai.

Brief Scores: South Africa 346/6 (Anneke Bosch 91, Laura Wolvaardt 69; Bree Illing 3-60) lost to New Zealand 350/8 (Amelia Kerr 179*, Isabella Gaze 68; Ayabonga Khaka 3-51) by 2 wickets.