South Africa Women Equal Series with 18-Run Victory Over New Zealand in 2nd T20I
Synopsis
Witness South Africa Women's cricket team as they deliver an outstanding performance to clinch an 18-run victory against New Zealand in the second T20I. Dominated by impactful batting and spectacular bowling, this match levels the five-match series 1-1. Discover the highlights and standout players of this thrilling encounter.
Key Takeaways
South Africa Women leveled the series 1-1 with a strong performance.
Tazmin Brits was the top scorer with 53 runs.
Ayabonga Khaka excelled with 4 wickets for 27 runs.
New Zealand Women struggled in the middle overs, losing crucial wickets.
Kayla Reyneke's late innings boost helped secure the victory.
Hamilton, March 17 (NationPress) The South African Women’s cricket team showcased a remarkable all-round performance, triumphing over New Zealand Women by 18 runs in the second T20I of the five-match series. Their success was built on a robust batting effort from the top-order and disciplined bowling from Ayabonga Khaka and Nonkululeko Mlaba, which allowed them to seize control of the match.
After being invited to bat first, South Africa made a rapid start, thanks to Sune Luus and Tazmin Brits, who formed a smooth 62-run opening partnership. Luus set the tone with an aggressive 31 runs off 21 balls, featuring five boundaries and a six, before being dismissed by Amelia Kerr. Following her dismissal, Brits took the reins, stabilizing the innings with a solid 53 runs off 43 balls, including five fours and three sixes.
Captain Laura Wolvaardt played a crucial role in the middle overs, contributing a steady 41 runs off 33 balls, maintaining the innings' momentum despite losing wickets regularly. South Africa crossed the 100-run mark in the 11th over, but a brief slowdown ensued as New Zealand’s spinners applied pressure.
However, a late surge turned the match in South Africa's favor. Kayla Reyneke provided a stunning finish with an explosive unbeaten 28 runs off just nine balls, hitting three consecutive sixes in the final over bowled by Sophie Devine. Her late onslaught propelled South Africa to a formidable total of 177/5 in their 20 overs.
In reply, New Zealand started positively despite early losses. Amelia Kerr responded with a quick 32 runs off 18 balls, striking six boundaries, while Sophie Devine added 25 runs off 18 balls, putting the hosts at 71/3 within seven overs.
Just when New Zealand seemed well-positioned, South Africa's bowlers ignited a collapse. Ayabonga Khaka spearheaded the attack, concluding with figures of 4-27, dismissing key players like Maddy Green and Brooke Halliday in rapid succession. Left-arm spinner Nonkululeko Mlaba also excelled, achieving 3-27 and breaking a vital partnership by taking down both Amelia Kerr and later, Suzie Bates.
The middle overs were pivotal, with New Zealand losing wickets consistently and slipping from a strong position to 111/7. Although Izzy Sharp top-scored with 29 and Jess Kerr contributed a brief 14, the required run rate kept increasing.
South Africa displayed composure in the closing overs, with Khaka returning to claim another wicket, sealing the victory. A run-out in the final over capped New Zealand's innings at 159/9, leaving them 18 runs short.
Through this comprehensive victory, South Africa not only secured the match but also leveled the five-match series at 1-1.
Brief scores: South Africa Women 177/5 in 20 overs (Tazmin Brits 53, Laura Wolvaardt 41; Amelia Kerr 2-29, Jess Kerr 2-34) beat New Zealand Women 159/10 in 19.1 overs (Amelia Kerr 32, Izzy Sharp 29; Ayabonga Khaka 4-27, Nonkululeko Mlaba 3-27) by 18 runs.
Point of View
This match showcased the resilience and skill of the South African Women's cricket team. Their ability to bounce back after a loss and deliver a strong performance is commendable. The players' dedication and teamwork were pivotal in leveling the series, reflecting positively on women's cricket in South Africa.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the outcome of the 2nd T20I between South Africa and New Zealand?
South Africa Women won the 2nd T20I against New Zealand Women by 18 runs, leveling the five-match series 1-1.
Who were the standout players in the match?
Tazmin Brits scored 53 runs, while Ayabonga Khaka took 4 wickets for 27 runs, and Nonkululeko Mlaba claimed 3 wickets for 27 runs.
What was South Africa's total score in the match?
South Africa Women scored 177 runs for 5 wickets in their 20 overs.
How did New Zealand perform in response to South Africa's score?
New Zealand Women scored 159 runs for 10 wickets in 19.1 overs, falling short by 18 runs.
When and where did the match take place?
The match took place on March 17 in Hamilton, New Zealand.
