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South Africa bounced back in style to defeat New Zealand by 19 runs in the fourth T20I at Sky Stadium. Riding on a composed half-century from Connor Esterhuizen and a disciplined bowling effort, the visitors squared the five-match series 2-2, setting up a thrilling decider.
Connor Esterhuizen anchors South Africa to competitive total
After opting to bat first, South Africa posted a competitive total of 164/5 in their 20 overs. Despite an early setback with Wiaan Mulder departing for a duck, Tony de Zorzi steadied the innings with a fluent 23 off 21 balls. The innings was anchored by Esterhuizen, who played a match-defining knock of 57 off 36 deliveries, striking seven fours and three sixes.
Esterhuizen found support from Rubin Hermann, who chipped in with 28 runs. Late contributions from Dian Forrester (19), Jason Smith (19), and George Linde (14) ensured South Africa finished strongly, adding valuable runs in the death overs.
For New Zealand, Kyle Jamieson stood out with figures of 2/29, while Ben Sears was economical, conceding just 22 runs and picking up a wicket. However, James Neesham proved expensive, giving away 49 runs, which allowed South Africa to gain momentum during the middle and death overs.
South Africa bowlers seal the deal
Chasing 165, New Zealand started positively with Tim Robinson scoring 32 off 22 balls. Dane Cleaver added a quick 26 off 16, but the hosts failed to build partnerships as wickets fell at regular intervals. Nick Kelly’s 19 provided brief stability, but the middle order struggled to keep up with the required rate. Lower-order contributions from Jamieson (13) and Cole McConchie (10) were not enough as New Zealand were bowled out for 145 in 18.5 overs.
South Africa’s bowling attack delivered under pressure, with Gerald Coetzee leading the charge with three wickets. Keshav Maharaj and Prenelan Subrayen picked up two wickets each, while Ottniel Baartman also bagged two crucial scalps to dent New Zealand’s chase. Esterhuizen was named Player of the Match for his outstanding innings that laid the foundation for the win. With the series now level at 2-2, the stage is perfectly set for an exciting fifth T20I.
Also READ: NZ vs SA T20I Series: Date, Match Time, Broadcast and Live Streaming details
A crucial win for the Proteas as they levelled the series 2-2 💪#cricket #NZvsSA
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Also READ: Lockie Ferguson, Tom Latham sizzle in New Zealand’s commanding win over South Africa in 3rd T20I
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