The fifth and final T20I between New Zealand Women and South Africa Women at Hagley Oval carries significance despite the series result already being decided. With the White Ferns holding an unassailable 3-1 lead, the contest offers South Africa one last opportunity to build momentum ahead of the ODI leg, while the hosts aim to maintain the high standards they have displayed throughout the series.
New Zealand have appeared confident in home conditions, particularly during the fourth T20I where they completed a record chase. Sophie Devine, marking her 150th T20I appearance, played a key role with a commanding 64 as the White Ferns successfully pursued South Africa’s total of 159.
For the Proteas, the tour has featured several competitive moments without sustained control. Their improved showing in the previous game was highlighted by Annerie Dercksen’s unbeaten 55 from 32 balls, but the bowling unit was unable to contain the hosts during the crucial phases. South Africa’s only victory came in the second match at Seddon Park, where Kayla Reyneke’s late contributions proved decisive. However, maintaining consistent pressure against New Zealand’s deep batting order has remained a challenge.
Squads
New Zealand Women’s Cricket Team
Amelia Kerr, Suzie Bates, Sophie Devine, Isabella Gaze, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Bree Illing, Polly Inglis, Jess Kerr, Rosemary Mair, Nensi Patel, Georgia Plimmer, Izzy Sharp
South Africa Women’s Cricket Team
Dane Van Niekerk, Chloe Tryon, Masabata Klaas, Ayabonga Khaka, Sune Luus, Laura Wolvaardt, Sinalo Jafta, Nadine De Klerk, Tazmin Brits, Tumi Sekhukhune, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Annerie Dercksen, Ayanda Hlubi, Karabo Meso, Kayla Reyneke
Players to Watch
Sophie Devine
Sophie Devine has delivered influential all-round performances during the series, accumulating 156 runs at a strike rate of 156.00, including two half-centuries. She has also made a significant impact with the ball, claiming 7 wickets, with her best figures of 4/12 underlining her ability to change the course of a match.
Kayla Reyneke
Kayla Reyneke has been difficult to dismiss throughout the tour, remaining unbeaten in three of her four innings. She has scored 99 runs at an impressive strike rate of 180.00 and struck seven sixes, the highest among the players highlighted. Her finishing role has often provided crucial late acceleration for South Africa.
Jess Kerr
Jess Kerr has led New Zealand’s wicket-taking efforts with consistency, picking up 8 wickets from 16 overs while maintaining an economy rate of 5.81. Her best return of 3/16 demonstrates her effectiveness in breaking partnerships and controlling the flow of runs.
Nonkululeko Mlaba
Nonkululeko Mlaba has shouldered a significant share of the bowling responsibilities for South Africa. Across four matches she has taken 6 wickets, with her standout performance being figures of 3/27. Her control during the middle overs has been an important tactical factor for her side.
Pitch Report
Hagley Oval traditionally offers a balanced surface, often providing early assistance to seam bowlers. While the new ball can produce swing and seam movement, the pitch generally settles as the game progresses, allowing batters to play their strokes once they adjust to the bounce.
Weather Forecast
Christchurch is expected to experience sunny conditions with temperatures around 17°C and humidity at 81%. On match day, the temperature is forecast to reach a high of 20°C and a low of 12°C, with conditions likely to turn partly cloudy later in the evening.
Fantasy Playing XI
Amelia Kerr, Suzie Bates, Sophie Devine, Jess Kerr, Georgia Plimmer, Izzy Sharp, Dane Van Niekerk, Ayabonga Khaka, Laura Wolvaardt, Annerie Dercksen, Kayla Reyneke
Match Details
- Date: March 25, 2026
- Time: 7:15 AM
- Venue: Hagley Oval, Christchurch
- Broadcast: The game will be live-streamed on the FanCode app and website.
