Tri-Nation Series: Williamson's First ODI Century Since 2019 Outshines Breetzke's Remarkable Debut for SA
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Synopsis
On February 10, New Zealand clinched a spot in the Tri-Nation ODI Series final with a six-wicket victory over South Africa, highlighted by Kane Williamson's first century since 2019 and Matthew Breetzke's impressive debut. The final will take place in Karachi on February 14.
Key Takeaways
- New Zealand qualified for the final of the Tri-Nation ODI Series.
- Kane Williamson scored his first ODI century since 2019.
- Matthew Breetzke made history with a 150-run debut.
- New Zealand chased down a target of 305 runs with ease.
- The final is set for February 14 in Karachi.
Lahore, Feb 10 (NationPress) New Zealand secured their place in the final of the Tri-Nation ODI Series with a convincing six-wicket triumph against South Africa at the Gaddafi Stadium on Monday. Having already bested the hosts Pakistan in their opening match, the Black Caps will now focus on the concluding game between Pakistan and South Africa to ascertain their opponents for the final, scheduled to take place in Karachi on February 14.
The choice to bowl first proved advantageous for New Zealand, despite a challenging beginning to the match. Opener Matthew Breetzke (150) made history as the only player to hit 150 runs on his ODI debut and became the fourth South African to reach a century in his inaugural match.
Captain Temba Bavuma (20) was the first to depart in the eighth over, caught behind by wicketkeeper Tom Latham off a short delivery from Will O’Rourke. Jason Smith (41) made a significant contribution, partnering with Breetzke for a 93-run partnership before falling while attempting a quick single.
New Zealand's captain Mitchell Santner, known for his sharp fielding, swiftly caught the ball at short cover, sending Smith back to the pavilion.
Kyle Verreynne (1) was dismissed just eight balls later, bowled by Michael Bracewell as he attempted a reverse sweep. Following this, the Proteas appeared to be in control, with Wiaan Mulder (64) and Breetzke forming a formidable 131-run partnership, inching closer to 300 runs.
The 26-year-old debutant, not selected for South Africa's squad for the 2025 Champions Trophy, dazzled at Gaddafi Stadium, hitting 11 boundaries and five sixes. His innings concluded in the 46th over when he mistimed a delivery from Matt Henry, leading to a simple catch at mid-off. The Kiwis managed to limit South Africa to 304/6, a challenging total but not insurmountable considering Breetzke's exceptional batting display.
Chasing 305, New Zealand faced early challenges in the powerplay, losing Will Young (19) on the penultimate ball of the tenth over.
However, from that point onward, New Zealand took control as Devon Conway (97) and Kiwi legend Kane Williamson (133 not out) guided their team to victory. Williamson marked his return to form with his 14th ODI century, equaling South African great AB De Villiers with his 47th triple-figure score across all formats. It was also his first century in over five years, having last achieved this feat during the 2019 ODI World Cup against West Indies.
The 34-year-old achieved his runs at a strike rate of 117.69, with thirteen boundaries and two sixes contributing significantly to his score.
Junior Dala ended the 187-run partnership in the 36th over by dismissing Conway just three runs shy of his century. Glenn Phillips (28), who had recently scored his maiden ODI century against Pakistan, remained unbeaten and helped steer the team alongside the experienced Williamson to secure the six-wicket win with eight balls remaining.
Brief scores:
South Africa 304/6 in 50 overs (Breetzke 150, Mulder 64; Matt Henry 2-59) lost to New Zealand 308/4 in 48.4 overs (Williamson 133*, Conway 97; Senuran Muthusamy 2-50) by six wickets
