Lahore, Pakistan – February 10, 2025
A record-breaking debut century from Matthew Breetzke was not enough to steer South Africa to victory as Kane Williamson’s masterful unbeaten 133 guided New Zealand to a six-wicket win in the Tri-Series clash at Gaddafi Stadium.
In a match that showcased both emerging talent and proven class, Breetzke became the first South African to score 150 on ODI debut, leading the Proteas to a competitive 304/6. However, Williamson’s impeccable innings, complemented by Devon Conway’s 97, ensured the Black Caps chased down the target with eight balls to spare.
South Africa’s Batting – Breetzke Stamps His Arrival
Winning the toss, captain Temba Bavuma opted to bat, and it wasn’t long before Matthew Breetzke announced himself on the international stage in style. The debutant opener played with composure and confidence, constructing a magnificent 150 off 148 balls. While wickets fell around him, Breetzke anchored the innings, his stroke play blending caution with calculated aggression.
Bavuma’s early departure for 20 was a setback, but Jason Smith (41 off 51) and Wiaan Mulder (64 off 60) provided crucial middle-order contributions. The Proteas’ innings gained momentum in the final 10 overs, where 108 runs were added to push the total past 300.
New Zealand’s bowlers struggled to contain Breetzke, but Matt Henry (2/59) and Will O’Rourke (2/72) provided crucial breakthroughs. Despite their best efforts, the Proteas had posted what seemed to be a strong total on a slightly two-paced wicket.
New Zealand’s Chase – Williamson’s Batting Clinic
The Black Caps started their chase in measured fashion, losing Will Young early for 19. But the arrival of Kane Williamson saw an exhibition of ODI batting at its finest. Partnering with Conway, the two built a solid foundation, steadily increasing the run rate while manipulating the field with precision.
Conway was unlucky to fall short of a deserved century, dismissed for 97, but Williamson remained unshaken. His 133 off 113 balls was a lesson in pacing an innings, ensuring that New Zealand never fell too far behind.
A brief wobble saw Daryl Mitchell and Tom Latham fall in quick succession, but Glenn Phillips (28* off 32) provided the finishing touches. New Zealand reached the target in 48.4 overs, sealing a six-wicket victory and two points in the Tri-Series standings.
Proteas Bowling Struggles
Despite an admirable effort from the Proteas’ attack, they lacked penetration against an experienced New Zealand lineup. Eathan Bosch, on debut, picked up the wicket of Young, while Junior Dala and Senuran Muthusamy chipped in with one each. However, Lungi Ngidi (0/54 in 7 overs) and Tabraiz Shamsi (0/62 in 9 overs) found it tough going against Williamson’s brilliance.
Looking Ahead
For South Africa, this defeat highlights the need for a more disciplined bowling effort, especially in the middle overs. However, Breetzke’s historic knock is a huge positive, signaling the arrival of a new talent in international cricket.
With the Tri-Series final still within reach, the Proteas will look to bounce back in their upcoming clash against hosts Pakistan, where another opportunity awaits to fine-tune their game.
Match Summary:
South Africa 304/6 (50 overs) – Breetzke 150 (148), Mulder 64 (60); Henry 2/59
New Zealand 308/4 (48.4 overs) – Williamson 133* (113), Conway 97 (107); Muthusamy 2/50
New Zealand won by 6 wickets.
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