South Africa secured a crucial win in the South Africa vs New Zealand T20I result, defeating the hosts by 19 runs in the fourth match to level the five-match series 2-2.
The victory in Wellington followed two consecutive losses and set up a decisive final match in Christchurch. Batting first, South Africa posted 164-5, with Connor Esterhuizen leading the charge. The wicketkeeper scored 57 off 36 balls, anchoring the innings.
New Zealand started their chase strongly. At 88-3 after 10 overs, they appeared on track to seal the series.
However, the momentum shifted quickly as wickets fell in clusters. The hosts collapsed to 145 all out in 18.5 overs. South Africa’s spinners played a decisive role in the middle overs. Captain Keshav Maharaj controlled the game with figures of 2-22 from four overs. Prenelan Subrayen also impressed on debut. He dismissed Dane Cleaver and finished with 2-13, triggering a middle-order collapse.
Maharaj later praised his team’s improved energy after earlier defeats.
“It was a perfect response to two disappointing losses,” he said, adding that the young squad is still developing in international cricket. For New Zealand, Tim Robinson top-scored with 32 but lacked support as wickets continued to fall.
South Africa’s pace attack also contributed, with Gerald Coetzee taking 3-31.
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Earlier, Esterhuizen’s half-century gave the visitors a competitive total. His innings ended with a sharp catch by debutant Katene Clarke off Ben Sears. Sears delivered an economical spell, conceding just 22 runs in four overs, including a tight final over. With the series now tied at 2-2, both teams will head to Christchurch for the final match.
The contest remains open, especially as both sides field relatively inexperienced squads. South Africa will look to carry momentum, while New Zealand aim to bounce back after their batting collapse.
