Kayla Reyneke's Last-Ball Six Secures Dramatic ODI Victory for South Africa
Synopsis
In an exhilarating finish, Kayla Reyneke hit a last-ball six on her ODI debut, leading South Africa to a thrilling two-wicket win over New Zealand. This match showcased stunning performances from both teams, making it an unforgettable opener at Hagley Oval.
Key Takeaways
Kayla Reyneke made a memorable ODI debut.
Ayabonga Khaka took 6 wickets, showcasing her bowling prowess.
South Africa chased down the target with a last-ball six.
The series opener was highly competitive and thrilling.
South Africa leads the series 1-0.
Christchurch, March 29 (NationPress) In a stunning moment on her ODI debut, Kayla Reyneke launched a last-ball six, clinching a thrilling two-wicket victory for South Africa against New Zealand during the series opener at Hagley Oval on Sunday.
Kayla, awarded Player of the Match, remained not out with a score of 42 from 32 balls, steering the Proteas to victory after Ayabonga Khaka delivered an outstanding performance with figures of 6-56, limiting the home team to 268 runs. Annerie Dercksen led the scoring for South Africa with 72 runs off 93 balls, while Sune Luus contributed 53 runs, crucially keeping the chase on track until Kayla secured the win.
New Zealand batted first in overcast conditions, with Georgia Plimmer (28) and Amelia Kerr (36) working to stabilize the innings before Khaka and Chloe Tryon struck quickly, leaving the home team at 112/4 after 28 overs.
Maddy Green anchored the innings with her 10th half-century, forming an 80-run partnership with Izzy Gaze (37) and later adding 92 runs alongside Jess Kerr (24) in the closing stages. Khaka returned to take four wickets, ultimately dismissing the White Ferns for 268 runs in the final over.
South Africa's innings started poorly, with Jess Kerr and Bree Illing dismissing Tazmin Brits and Laura Wolvaardt early, leaving the visitors struggling at 30/2 after just six overs. However, Annerie and Sune staged a comeback with a vital 123-run partnership, before New Zealand retaliated through Suzie Bates and Amelia Kerr, who took down both set batters in consecutive overs, along with quick dismissals of Sinalo Jafta and Chloe.
At 190/6, the match seemed precarious, but Nadine de Klerk (39) partnered with Kayla to add 48 runs before Rosemary Mair's late strikes made the match tense.
With 22 runs required off the final 13 balls, Kayla, alongside Tumi Sekhukhune (not out on six), hit two sixes in the last over, including the final ball, securing a breathtaking win and a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
Brief Scores: New Zealand 268 (Maddy Green 85, Izzy Gaze 37; Ayabonga Khaka 6-56) lost to South Africa 269/8 (Annerie Dercksen 72, Sune Luus 53; Amelia Kerr 2-31) by two wickets
Point of View
Kayla Reyneke's stellar debut not only showcased her talent but also highlighted the competitive spirit of both teams involved in this thrilling encounter. South Africa's victory sets the tone for an exciting series ahead.
NationPress
2 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was the Player of the Match in the ODI?
Kayla Reyneke was named Player of the Match for her outstanding performance, scoring 42 runs not out and hitting the winning six.
What were the final scores of the match?
New Zealand scored 268 runs, while South Africa chased down the target, finishing at 269/8 to win by two wickets.
How many wickets did Ayabonga Khaka take?
Ayabonga Khaka took 6 wickets for 56 runs, playing a crucial role in restricting New Zealand's score.
What is the significance of this match for South Africa?
This match marks a thrilling start for South Africa in the three-match ODI series against New Zealand.
Where was the match played?
The match took place at Hagley Oval in Christchurch, New Zealand.
