New Zealand edge South Africa in thriller to clinch T20I tri-series

New Zealand edge South Africa in thriller to clinch T20I tri-series

New Zealand extended their unbeaten run to the final of the tri-series, edging past South Africa by three runs in a tense finish. The Kiwis held on to two stunning catches to deny South Africa, despite a late assault from Dewald Brevis.

New Zealand's solid batting performance, highlighted by 47 each from Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra, saw them post 180/5 after being asked to bat first. In response, South Africa's Lhuan-dre Pretorius got them underway with a boundary, but they struggled to build momentum.

New Zealand's introduction of spin proved counter-productive, with Mitchell Santner and Michael Bracewell conceding 27 runs off the 7th and 8th overs, including 10 wides. However, the Kiwis regained control by dismissing key South African batsmen, including Pretorius and Reeza Hendricks.

Brevis then answered South Africa's call to arms, smashing three timely sixes in the 18th and 19th overs. However, New Zealand held on to win, with Daryl Mitchell holding a blinder down at long-on to dismiss George Linde and confirm their unblemished tri-series win.

Brief Scores: New Zealand 180/5 (Devon Conway 47, Rachin Ravindra 47) beat South Africa 177/6 (Lhuan-dre Pretorius 51, Reeza Hendricks 37) by 3 runs.