Amelia Kerr and Georgia Plimmer delivered a commanding batting performance as the New Zealand defeated the South Africa by 80 runs in the first T20I at Mount Maunganui.
The pair shared a superb 146-run partnership, the fourth-highest stand for New Zealand in women’s T20 internationals, guiding the hosts to a formidable total of 190/7.
Kerr continued her outstanding form with a brilliant 78, her fourth consecutive fifty-plus score, striking 11 fours and two sixes, while Plimmer added an aggressive 63 to maintain momentum through the middle overs.
South Africa struggled in the chase and finished on 110/7, with Tazmin Brits top-scoring with 29 but failing to provide the acceleration required.
New Zealand’s bowlers ensured the target was never threatened as Jess Kerr struck early to remove Sune Luus and Captain Laura Wolvaardt, before Sophie Devine delivered a career-best spell of 4/12 to seal a comfortable victory.
The convincing result gives New Zealand a 1-0 lead in the five-match T20I series as they continue preparations for upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup.
