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Williamson’s Masterclass Secures New Zealand’s Spot in Tri-Series Final Despite Breetzke’s Record-Breaking Debut
New Zealand clinched a commanding six-wicket victory over South Africa in the second One-Day International (ODI) of the ongoing tri-nation series in Lahore on Monday. Despite debutant Matthew Breetzke’s stunning 150, the highest-ever score by an ODI debutant, New Zealand successfully chased down South Africa’s formidable total of 304/6, with Kane Williamson (133) and Devon Conway (97)* leading the charge.
The Kiwis’ second consecutive win secured them a place in the final of the series, highlighting their dominance ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
Breetzke Shines on Debut but Falls Short of Victory
South Africa’s Solid Start and Middle-Order Contribution
After being put in to bat, South Africa suffered an early blow as captain Temba Bavuma fell in the eighth over, gloving a short ball from William O’Rourke to the wicketkeeper. However, Breetzke and Jason Smith stabilized the innings with a crucial 93-run partnership for the second wicket.
- Smith took some time to settle in but soon began attacking the spinners.
- He swept Mitchell Santner for a boundary and lofted Michael Bracewell for a six.
- Unfortunately, a miscalculated single led to Smith’s run-out, ending his promising innings.
Following Smith’s dismissal, Kyle Verreynne fell quickly, attempting a reverse sweep that backfired, reducing South Africa to 132/3 in 27 overs.
Breetzke’s Record-Breaking Knock
Unfazed by the wickets, Breetzke and Wiaan Mulder took control, adding 131 runs for the third wicket. Breetzke, who displayed immense confidence and composure, launched an aggressive attack in the final overs:
- He smashed Matt Henry for a boundary and a six in the 38th over.
- He cut William O’Rourke through backward point for another boundary, bringing up his century.
- He dismantled Ben Sears in consecutive overs, scoring 14 and 20 runs, before falling for 150—a record-breaking feat for a debutant.
Mulder provided late fireworks, guiding South Africa past 300 before his dismissal in the 49th over.
Williamson and Conway Lead New Zealand to a Comfortable Chase
Early Setback but a Strong Partnership
Chasing 305, New Zealand had a minor scare when Will Young was dropped in the third over but eventually departed for 16. However, that did little to deter their pursuit as Conway and Williamson stitched together a match-winning 187-run stand for the second wicket.
- The duo rotated the strike efficiently, keeping the scoreboard ticking.
- Williamson reached his half-century in the 24th over, smashing Tabraiz Shamsi over long-on.
- Conway was more composed but opened up in the 27th over, hitting three consecutive boundaries off Shamsi.
Williamson’s Acceleration and Late Wickets
As the innings progressed, Williamson moved into top gear:
- Mihlali Mpongwana, Lungi Ngidi, and Wiaan Mulder were all dispatched for multiple boundaries.
- Williamson brought up his century in just 72 balls, showcasing a dominant display.
Though South Africa struck back with quick wickets—Conway (97), Daryl Mitchell (8), and Tom Latham (5)—Williamson remained unfazed. Partnering with Glenn Phillips (28),* he calmly guided New Zealand home with eight balls to spare.
New Zealand’s Highest Successful Chase Against South Africa
This victory marked New Zealand’s highest successful run-chase against South Africa in ODIs. Williamson’s century and Conway’s composed innings ensured a smooth passage into the tri-series final.
Brief Scores:
South Africa: 304/6 in 50 overs (Matthew Breetzke 150, Wiaan Mulder 64; Matt Henry 2-59)
New Zealand: 308/4 in 48.4 overs (Kane Williamson 133, Devon Conway 97; Senuran Muthuswamy 2-50)*
What’s Next?
With this victory, New Zealand have booked their spot in the tri-series final. South Africa, on the other hand, will need to bounce back in their next match to stay in contention.
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For more details on the tri-series standings and upcoming fixtures, visit the official ICC website.
