The opening ODI between New Zealand and South Africa at Hagley Oval delivered a dramatic contest, setting up the series in compelling fashion. New Zealand posted 268, built around a fine 85 from Maddy Green along with an all-round effort from Amelia Kerr. In response, South Africa held their composure in a tense chase. After a crucial 72 from Annerie Dercksen, debutant Kayla Reyneke sealed a two-wicket win with a six off the final ball. The result handed South Africa a 1-0 lead as they head into the second match.
Squads
New Zealand Women’s Cricket Team
Amelia Kerr (C), Suzie Bates, Flora Devonshire, Isabella Gaze, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Bree Illing, Jess Kerr, Kayley Knight, Rosemary Mair, Nensi Patel, Georgia Plimmer, Izzy Sharp
South Africa Women’s Cricket Team
Laura Wolvaardt (C), Anneke Bosch, Tazmin Brits, Nadine de Klerk, Annerie Dercksen, Ayanda Hlubi, Sinalo Jafta, Ayabonga Khaka, Masabata Klaas, Sune Luus, Karabo Meso, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Kayla Reyneke, Tumi Sekhukhune, Chloe Tryon
Players to Watch
Maddy Green
Maddy Green led New Zealand’s batting effort with a composed 85 from 83 balls. Her innings, which included nine boundaries, combined steady strike rotation with timely scoring, providing stability through the middle overs.
Annerie Dercksen
Annerie Dercksen played a key role in South Africa’s chase, scoring 72 off 93 deliveries. Her innings featured eight fours and was crucial in keeping her side in contention during a challenging phase.
Ayabonga Khaka
Ayabonga Khaka delivered an outstanding bowling performance, claiming 6 for 56 from her 10 overs. With one maiden and consistent breakthroughs, she played a decisive role in limiting New Zealand’s total.
Amelia Kerr
Amelia Kerr once again showed her control with the ball, returning figures of 2 for 31 from 10 overs. Her economical spell helped apply pressure during South Africa’s chase.
Pitch Report
The Basin Reserve is traditionally known for assisting seam bowlers, offering pace, bounce, and early movement. While conditions tend to favor fast bowlers initially, the surface generally becomes more conducive to batting once the new ball phase passes.
Weather Report
The forecast suggests partly sunny conditions, with temperatures expected to range between 11°C and 15°C. Rain is unlikely, with only a 10% chance, and a light breeze of around 6 mph is anticipated.
Fantasy Playing XI
Amelia Kerr, Suzie Bates, Maddy Green, Jess Kerr, Izzy Sharp, Laura Wolvaardt, Nadine de Klerk, Annerie Dercksen, Ayabonga Khaka, Kayla Reyneke, Chloe Tryon
Match Details
- Date: April 01, 2026
- Time: 3:30 AM IST
- Venue: Basin Reserve, Wellington
- Broadcast: Live streaming available on the FanCode app and website
