South Africa came from behind to beat New Zealand by 33 runs in Christchurch and win their T20 series 3-2. New Zealand had led the series 2-1 last week, but South Africa fought back to take the final two matches.
Connor Esterhuizen was the star of the decider, smashing 75 runs from just 33 balls after South Africa had made a slow start. His fast scoring helped his team reach 187 for 4, giving the bowlers a strong total to defend. Esterhuizen, who only made his international debut earlier in the series, hit four sixes and three fours in an exciting innings.
He also shared a quick partnership of 61 runs with Dian Forrester, which put South Africa in control. New Zealand then struggled in their chase and were held to 154 for 8 as Gerald Coetzee, Wiaan Mulder and Ottniel Baartman each took two wickets.
James Neesham, who was captain because Mitchell Santner was rested and Tom Latham was injured, stayed in until the final over but could not lead his side to victory. New Zealand also made things harder for themselves by dropping six catches during South Africa’s innings.
After the match, Esterhuizen said playing for his country meant everything and felt like a dream. The win gave South Africa a comeback series victory, while New Zealand now turn their attention to a white-ball tour of Bangladesh in April.
