Proteas concede record total in T20 tri-series
THERE were world records aplenty as South Africa went down by 66 runs to an inspired New Zealand in the opening match of the women’s tri-series in Somerset yesterday.
The White Ferns amassed the highest total in women’s 20-over cricket at this level when they posted 216/1. Despite a valiant effort by the South Africans, they could only manage 150/6 in reply as they slipped to defeat in the opening game of the series.
It was all about the New Zealanders though, in the opening game as they began the competition with a bang.
New Zealand were superbly led by captain Suzie Bates as she posted her highest score and maiden T20I century by striking an unbeaten 124 (66 balls, 16 fours, three sixes). It was the joint-second highest score in women’s 20-over international cricket.
And if that was not enough, the skipper added another world record to her name when she shared a partnership of 182 with Sophie Devine, the leading stand in the history of women’s T20Is.
It was also Devine’s careerbest score as she managed 73 (48 balls, four fours, four sixes), which allowed her team to post a monumental total after they lost the toss and were asked to bat first.
Marizanne Kapp was the only successful SA bowler with 1/32.
The South Africans made a decent start by reaching 30/1 in the fourth over, but losing a cluster of wickets then saw them lose their way.
Hayley Jensen claimed 3/28 as the Proteas lost three wickets with the score on 40, including that of star opener Laura Wolvaardt for 25.
Top scorer and captain Dane van Niekerk hit 58 (57 balls, nine fours, one six) and at one stage had rescued the Proteas by taking them to 119/4 following a record-breaking fifth-wicket stand of 79 with Mignon du Preez (36).
However, it was never going to be enough as they fell to defeat. – ANA
In a second match last night South Africa (129/6) were beaten by 121 euns by England (250/3).p
Temba Bavuma has been appointed captain for the Highveld Lions for the 2018/19 season in all formats. Bavuma will be supported by Rassie van der Dussen in the capacity of vice-captain.