New Zealand Triumphs Over South Africa to Secure ODI Series Victory

New Zealand Claims Series Win

In a decisive match, New Zealand emerged victorious against South Africa in the third and final ODI, securing vital points for the ICC Women's Championship 2025-2029.

With a 66-run win in Wellington, the White Ferns now lead the ICC Women's Championship standings, accumulating 10 points from six matches, while South Africa holds third place with six points, as reported by the ICC.

Record Partnership Propels New Zealand

South Africa opted to field first after winning the toss. The Kiwis faced early challenges, finding themselves at 3/3 within 19 balls, including the dismissal of captain Melie Kerr, who fell for a golden duck.

However, Maddy Green and Brooke Halliday partnered effectively, steering New Zealand past the 200-run mark before the 40th over. Their remarkable 211-run partnership set a new record for the highest fourth-wicket stand for New Zealand in Women's ODIs, surpassing the previous record of 172 runs held by Amy Satterthwaite and Melie Kerr.

Halliday narrowly missed her century, getting out for 98 runs, while Maddy Green finished unbeaten at 141 off 128 balls, marking her highest score in ODIs with 15 boundaries.

Mair's Outstanding Bowling Performance

In response, South Africa's chase began strongly with skipper Laura Wolvaardt scoring 69 and Annerie Dercksen contributing 47 runs. However, the loss of both key players to Kayley Knight and Rosemary Mair disrupted their momentum.

Despite their promising start, South Africa could not recover, with Mair achieving a career-best bowling figure of 5/50, marking her first five-wicket haul in ODIs.

This victory allowed New Zealand to clinch the ODI series 2-1, following their earlier 4-1 T20I series win against South Africa last month.