Kayla Reyneke Makes History as First Woman to Win Player of the Match on Debut Across Formats
Synopsis
South Africa's Kayla Reyneke has made history by becoming the first woman to win player of the match awards on debut in multiple cricket formats. Her remarkable ODI debut against New Zealand saw her clinch victory with a last-ball six, adding to her earlier T20I success.
Key Takeaways
Kayla Reyneke made history as the first woman to win player of the match awards on debut in multiple formats.
She secured a thrilling ODI victory with a last-ball six against New Zealand.
Kayla's performance adds to her previous T20I success.
Her achievement highlights the growing competitiveness in women's cricket.
The second ODI is set for April 1, with South Africa leading the series.
Christchurch, March 29 (NationPress) – South African all-rounder Kayla Reyneke marked her ODI debut with a dramatic last-ball six against New Zealand on Sunday, leading the Proteas to a thrilling two-wicket victory. In doing so, Kayla has etched her name in history as the first woman in international cricket to secure player of the match awards on debut across multiple formats.
At just 20 years old, Kayla had previously achieved this honor during her T20I debut against Pakistan earlier this year in Potchefstroom, where she also hit a six off the final delivery to clinch victory for South Africa.
Her remarkable performance in the ODI match against New Zealand at the Hagley Oval makes her only the fifth cricketer in history to accomplish this milestone, joining the ranks of Elias Sunny (Tests and T20Is), Mustafizur Rahman (Tests and ODIs), Ben Foakes (ODIs and Tests), and Lungi Ngidi (Tests and T20Is).
With South Africa requiring 14 runs from the last over, Kayla, along with Tumi Sekhukhune, maintained their composure. Suzie Bates was on the bowling end for New Zealand, and Kayla struck a six on the third ball, leaving them needing just six runs from three deliveries.
She then sent the final delivery soaring over long-on, securing a two-wicket win for the Proteas. Kayla ended her innings unbeaten with a stellar 42 runs off 32 balls, featuring three fours and two sixes.
Before this, New Zealand was bowled out for 268, with Maddy Green scoring the highest at 85 runs. Amelia Kerr contributed 36, and Izzy Gaze added 37, while South Africa’s Ayabonga Khaka achieved career-best bowling figures of 6-56.
In their chase for 269 runs, South Africa stumbled at 30/2, but Annerie Dercksen (72) and Suné Luus (53) stabilized the innings with a significant 123-run partnership. Nadine de Klerk also played a vital role with a score of 39, but it was Kayla’s explosive finish that proved crucial. The second ODI is scheduled to take place at Basin Reserve in Wellington on April 1, where South Africa leads the three-match series 1-0.
Point of View
Kayla Reyneke's achievement not only highlights her individual talent but also marks a significant milestone for women's cricket in South Africa. Her performance reflects the growing competitiveness of the women's game, inspiring future generations of female cricketers.
NationPress
7 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Kayla Reyneke?
Kayla Reyneke is a South African all-rounder who recently made headlines for becoming the first woman to win player of the match awards on debut in multiple formats of international cricket.
What did Kayla Reyneke achieve in her ODI debut?
In her ODI debut against New Zealand, Kayla Reyneke hit a last-ball six to secure a thrilling two-wicket victory for South Africa.
How old is Kayla Reyneke?
Kayla Reyneke is 20 years old.
What is the significance of her achievement?
Kayla Reyneke's accomplishment signifies a historic moment in women's cricket, as she becomes the first woman to earn player of the match awards on debut in various formats.
When is the next ODI match for South Africa?
The next ODI match for South Africa is scheduled for April 1 at Basin Reserve in Wellington.
