New Zealand Women made history in ODI cricket by chasing a target of 346 runs against South Africa.
They achieved South Africa’s target of 347 runs with two balls to spare, losing eight wickets in the process, and set a new record in ODI cricket.
Captain Amelia Kerr played a pivotal role in the victory, scoring an unbeaten 179 off 139 balls.
After New Zealand lost their first four wickets early, Amelia put on a 120-run partnership with Isabelle, steadily increasing the score from one end.
The Kiwi captain reached her century in 90 balls, with the final 79 runs coming off just 49 balls, while Isabelle contributed a notable 68 runs from 48 balls. For South Africa Women, Iyabonga Xhaka took three wickets.
Earlier, South Africa, batting first, scored 346 for 6 in their allotted overs, setting a target of 347 for New Zealand to win.
It’s number one, Kerr said. Scoring a big hundred in a high-pressure chase against a quality side definitely ranks at the top for me. “I stayed really calm out there, focusing on simplifying things, taking it over by over and doing what was needed to get the job done,” she told reporters.
“When I hit the winning runs, I was actually pretty excited. It really shows how much it meant to me. I’m usually a relaxed person when it comes to celebrations, but that moment was special.” The 25-year-old led New Zealand to a series-levelling win with just two balls to spare. The teams will face off again in the deciding match on Saturday.
