PROTEAS LEVEL SERIES
South Africa produced a composed and clinical performance to defeat New Zealand by 19 runs in the fourth T20 in Wellington.
The five-match series is level at 2–2, setting up a thrilling decider on Wednesday. After being put under pressure in earlier games, South Africa responded with both bat and ball, delivering a balanced display when it mattered most. The Proteas won the toss and elected to bat first, but opener Wiaan Mulder lasted only two balls.
However, Connor Estherhuizen arrived to steady the ship with his 57 off 36 balls. The tailenders all chipped in, and they posted a defendable 164.
New Zealand started well but lost debutant Katene Clark (28) in the 3rd over while Tim Robinson (32) posted the highest score only to fall in the 6th over with the score at 52.
The Proteas bowlers then executed plans with precision, mixing pace and variation effectively on a surface that helped. Key wickets at crucial moments halted New Zealand’s momentum, while disciplined death bowling ensured the hosts never fully regained control of the chase. Gerald Coetzee was the pick of the Proteas bowling attack with his 3 from 31. Coetzee ended the game when he forced Kyle Jamieson to sky the ball into the hands of Baartman and steal the win with seven balls to spare.
This result leaves the series finely poised heading into the fifth and final match, also in Wellington. With confidence restored, South Africa will look to carry their momentum forward, while New Zealand will aim to bounce back strongly in front of their home crowd.
The decider promises high intensity, with both sides eager to clinch the series in what has been a keenly contested and entertaining battle throughout.
