In an exciting second T20I clash, South Africa Women's Cricket Team defeated the New Zealand Women's Cricket Team by 18 runs in Hamilton to level the series 1–1. While South Africa dominated the match, it was New Zealand captain Amelia Kerr who grabbed global attention with a historic all-round milestone.

Strong start powers South Africa to 177

Batting first, South Africa got off to a solid start, thanks to their openers:

• Sune Luus scored 31 off 21 balls

• Tazmin Brits made 53 off 43 balls

The duo added 62 runs for the opening wicket, setting a strong platform. Captain Laura Wolvaardt contributed a steady 41 off 33 balls*.

A late cameo from Kayla Reyneke, who smashed 28 runs off just 9 balls (including 3 sixes), helped South Africa post a competitive total of 177/6 in 20 overs.

New Zealand falter despite Kerr’s effort

Chasing 178, New Zealand had a poor start:

• Izzy Gaze scored just 6 runs

• Georgia Plimmer managed only 1 run

Captain Amelia Kerr tried to rescue the innings with a quick 32 off 18 balls, supported by Sophie Devine, who scored 25 off 18 balls.

However, after their dismissals, the middle order collapsed, and New Zealand were bowled out for 159 in 19.1 overs.

For South Africa, bowlers delivered a strong performance:

• Nonkululeko Mlaba took 3 wickets

• Ayabonga Khaka picked up 4 wickets

Amelia Kerr achieves historic milestone

Despite the loss, Amelia Kerr etched her name in the record books by completing the rare double of:

• 1,000+ runs in T20Is

• 100+ wickets in T20Is

She became the first female cricketer from a full-member nation to achieve this milestone. Previously, this feat had been achieved by Hong Kong’s Kary Chan, while in men’s cricket, Shakib Al Hasan is among those to reach the landmark.

Series decider awaits

With the series now tied at 1–1, both teams will face off in the निर्णायक third T20I at Eden Park on March 20, where the winner will take the series.