New Zealand vs South Africa: South Africa Women's National Cricket Team levelled the T20I series 1-1 with an 18-run victory over New Zealand Women's National Cricket Team in the second match on Tuesday, March 17, 2026. Defending 177, South Africa relied on a strong bowling performance from Ayabonga Khaka and Nonkululeko Mlaba, who shared seven wickets to derail New Zealand’s chase.

New Zealand appeared well-placed early at 70-2, with Amelia Kerr and Sophie Devine guiding the innings. However, Mlaba dismissed Kerr leg before wicket before Nadine de Klerk removed Devine in the next over, shifting momentum.

The middle overs proved decisive as New Zealand struggled to rotate strike and find boundaries. Izzy Sharp attempted to anchor the chase, but Khaka’s variations kept the scoring under control. Mlaba later dismissed Suzie Bates, leaving Sharp with limited support.

Needing 36 runs from the final three overs, New Zealand’s hopes faded as they were bowled out for 159 in 19.1 overs.

Earlier, South Africa’s innings was built around Tazmin Brits, who scored 53 and led an aggressive start. At 100-1, the visitors looked set for a big total before losing wickets in quick succession to slip to 120-4.

The late surge came from Kayla Reyneke, who struck three consecutive sixes in the final over off Devine to lift the total to 177-5. Reyneke was named Player of the Match for her crucial cameo.

Laura Wolvaardt also contributed with an unbeaten 43.

For New Zealand, Kerr and Jess Kerr picked up two wickets each, but the hosts fell short in the chase.

The result leveled the multi-match series at 1-1.

South Africa Women’s National Cricket Team vs New Zealand Women’s National Cricket Team Match Scorecard: South Africa Women 177-5 (Tazmin Brits 53, Laura Wolvaardt 43 not out; Amelia Kerr 2-29, Jess Kerr 2-34) beat New Zealand Women 159 all out (Amelia Kerr 32, Izzy Sharp 29; Ayabonga Khaka 4-27, Nonkululeko Mlaba 3-27) by 18 runs.