South Africa Women edged past New Zealand Women by two wickets in the first ODI of a three-match series in Christchurch. After being decided to bowl first, South Africa Women restricted New Zealand Women to 269 in 50 overs. Ayabonga Khaka (6/56 in 10 overs) delivered a sensational spell. Maddy Green played a superb knock of 85 off 83 balls, while Izzy Gaze and Amelia Kerr also contributed useful runs.

While chasing, South Africa Women lost two early wickets. However, Annerie Dercksen built a 123-run stand with Sune Luus for the third wicket, and both scored half-centuries. Still, the match remained evenly balanced until the final ball. Nadine de Klerk also played a superb knock of 39 off 39 balls.

South Africa needed 79 runs from 75 balls when Reyneke walked in at No. 8. However, she stayed calm under pressure and scored an unbeaten 42 off just 32 balls. She also struck 13 of the 14 runs needed in the final over bowled by Suzie Bates.

Interestingly, no batter hit a six in the first 99 overs of the match. However, Reyneke changed the game in the final over. First, she smashed a six over deep midwicket. Then, with six needed off the last ball, she launched another powerful hit straight down the ground to seal the win. With this win, South Africa Women took an initial 1-0 lead in the series.

Middle Order Lays Strong Foundation

Earlier, Annerie Dercksen scored 72 off 93 balls. Meanwhile, Sune Luus added 53 off 72 deliveries. Together, they built a crucial partnership and kept South Africa in the chase.

However, New Zealand kept taking wickets at regular intervals. As a result, the match remained tight until Reyneke’s brilliant finish.

Reyneke Holds Nerve Under Pressure

Despite wickets falling at the other end, Reyneke stayed composed. She ran quickly between the wickets and kept the scoreboard moving. Moreover, she hit three fours along with two sixes to keep the target within reach.

In the final over, New Zealand captain Amelia Kerr trusted Bates to defend the runs. However, the experienced bowler could not stop the young debutant, who powered South Africa to a 1-0 lead.

Khaka Shines with the Ball

Earlier in the match, Ayabonga Khaka delivered an outstanding spell. She took 6 wickets for 56 runs in helpful bowling conditions. On the other hand, Maddy Green scored a strong 85 off 83 balls and helped New Zealand reach 268 all out.

South Africa Overcome Early Setback

While chasing 269, South Africa lost early wickets. Laura Wolvaardt got out early, leaving the team at 30 for 2. However, Dercksen and Luus built a 123-run partnership and steadied the innings. Later, players like Nadine de Klerk added a quick 39 runs to keep the chase alive.