New Zealand have clinched the T20I Tri-Nation Series title in Zimbabwe after edging out South Africa by a narrow margin of just three runs in a nail-biting final on Saturday.
The victory capped off an unbeaten run for New Zealand, who displayed consistency and resilience throughout the tournament.
Batting first, New Zealand posted a competitive total, powered by a solid top-order performance and timely cameos from the middle order. Though South Africa’s bowlers — led by Lungi Ngidi, Nandre Burger, and Kwena Maphaka — managed to pull things back during the death overs, restricting the Kiwi side from crossing 190, the 180-run total proved just enough.
In reply, South Africa got off to a flying start. Openers Lhuan-dre Pretorius and Reeza Hendricks put on a commanding 92-run partnership. Pretorius led the charge with a fluent half-century, but momentum shifted dramatically as both openers fell in quick succession. Though Dewald Brevis threatened to snatch the game with a blistering 31 off just 16 balls, South Africa ultimately fell short, needing 7 off the final over but managing only 3, thanks to outstanding death bowling and sensational fielding by New Zealand.
Matt Henry was named Player of the Match and Player of the Series, finishing with 2 wickets in the final and 10 overall in the tournament. He credited the entire bowling unit and emphasized the importance of adaptability. “It was a tight game, and we had to adjust our lengths quickly. We’re building great momentum ahead of the World Cup,” he said.
Captain Mitchell Santner praised his team’s fightback and strategic execution, especially in the final moments. “We hung in there. The boys stepped up big time, particularly in the death overs,” said Santner. His key conversation with Henry during the last over was to make Brevis hit towards the longer boundary — a tactic that worked perfectly.
The win is another feather in New Zealand’s cap, showcasing their depth, discipline, and ability to deliver under pressure. As they now prepare for a two-match Test series against Zimbabwe starting July 30, New Zealand will take plenty of confidence from this thrilling T20I triumph.