Williamson spoils Breetzke’s party as NZ reach tri-series final

Williamson spoils Breetzke's party as NZ reach tri-series final

Matthew Breetzke scored a majestic 150 on debut, but it wasn't enough as New Zealand cruised to a comfortable six-wicket win against South Africa in the second One-Day International of the tri-nation series in Lahore.

New Zealand chased down South Africa's total of 304/6 with eight balls to spare, thanks to Kane Williamson (133*) and Devon Conway (97).

Put in to bat, South Africa lost skipper Temba Bavuma early, but Breetzke and Jason Smith put on a strong second-wicket stand of 93. Smith was eventually run out, and Kyle Verryene was dismissed cheaply.

Wiaan Mulder and Breetzke added 131 runs for the third wicket, but the momentum slowed in the middle overs. Breetzke broke free in the death overs, smashing Matt Henry and Ben Sears for boundaries and sixes before falling on 150. Mulder also contributed with a quickfire innings.

New Zealand's chase was led by Conway and Williamson, who put on 187 runs for the second wicket. Williamson brought up his century in 72 balls, while Conway was more conservative early on but cut loose later in the innings.

South Africa took three wickets in quick succession, but it wasn't enough to stop New Zealand. Williamson steered the side to victory, with Glenn Phillips providing good support with an unbeaten 28.