New Zealand vs South Africa 2nd ODI Tri Series

Kane Williamson’s Heroics Lead New Zealand to Victory Over South Africa

Lahore, February 10, 2025 – New Zealand claimed a commanding six-wicket win over South Africa in the second match of the Pakistan Tri-Nation Series at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore. Kane Williamson delivered a batting masterclass, steering his side to victory with an unbeaten 133 off 113 balls as New Zealand successfully chased a challenging target of 305 with eight balls to spare.

Breetzke’s Dream Debut Sets the Foundation

South Africa, opting to bat first, posted a competitive 304/6 in their allotted 50 overs, largely thanks to a sensational debut century from Matthew Breetzke. The 26-year-old opener crafted a magnificent 150 off 148 deliveries, including 11 fours and five sixes, anchoring the Proteas’ innings with remarkable composure.

Temba Bavuma (20 off 23) provided early stability before falling to Will O’Rourke, while Jason Smith (41 off 51) contributed to a solid second-wicket partnership before being run out. Wiaan Mulder played a crucial role in the middle order, accelerating the innings with a brisk 64 off 60 balls. However, despite a strong foundation, South Africa managed only 41 runs in the last five overs, falling short of a potentially match-winning total.

New Zealand’s bowling unit remained disciplined, with Matt Henry (2/59) and Will O’Rourke (2/72) leading the attack. Michael Bracewell chipped in with a crucial wicket, while Mitchell Santner and Ben Sears applied pressure in the middle overs.

Williamson Orchestrates the Perfect Chase

In response, New Zealand got off to a steady start with Will Young (19 off 31) and Devon Conway (97 off 107) laying the groundwork. Conway was unfortunate to miss out on a century but played a crucial role in the run chase.

Kane Williamson then took center stage, exhibiting his trademark elegance and tactical acumen. His unbeaten 133 off 113 balls, featuring 13 boundaries and two sixes, proved decisive as he paced the innings to perfection. Even after losing Daryl Mitchell (10) and Tom Latham (0) in quick succession, Williamson’s unshakable presence ensured New Zealand remained on track.

Glenn Phillips provided the finishing touches with a composed 28* off 32 balls, guiding the Black Caps to a well-earned victory in the 49th over.

South Africa’s Bowlers Fail to Contain Williamson

Despite early breakthroughs from Eathan Bosch (1/33) and Junior Dala (1/47), South Africa struggled to contain Williamson’s brilliance. Senuran Muthusamy (2/50) was the most effective bowler, dismissing both Mitchell and Latham in quick succession. However, Lungi Ngidi (0/54) and Tabraiz Shamsi (0/62) were unable to create the necessary pressure, allowing New Zealand to chase down the target comfortably.

New Zealand’s composed chase highlighted their batting depth and ability to perform under pressure, with Kane Williamson’s brilliance overshadowing Matthew Breetzke’s sensational debut. The Black Caps now hold a strong position in the Tri-Nation Series, while South Africa will need to refine their bowling strategies to bounce back in their upcoming fixtures.

Match Summary:

• South Africa: 304/6 in 50 overs (Matthew Breetzke 150, Wiaan Mulder 64; Matt Henry 2/59, Will O’Rourke 2/72)
• New Zealand: 308/4 in 48.4 overs (Kane Williamson 133*, Devon Conway 97; Senuran Muthusamy 2/50)
• Result: New Zealand won by six wickets with eight balls to spare
• Now New Zealand has two wins  from two matches.
• Kane Williamson Player of Match 133 runs off 113 balls.