New Zealand Storm Into Pakistan Tri-Series 2025 Final with Dominant Win Over South Africa

Kane Williamson’s unbeaten 133 fired New Zealand to the final of the ODI tri-series in Pakistan. The former skipper’s stupendous knock helped the Black Caps secure a comprehensive six-wicket win against Temba Bavuma’s South Africa on Monday, February 10 at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. Matthew Breetzke’s historic century on debut went in vain as they fell short despite putting up a strong total.

With this win, Tom Latham’s team is now sitting comfortably at the top of the table with four points and a solid net run rate of +0.906. Their win has made the upcoming match between Pakistan and South Africa in February.

Breetzke’s Record-Breaking Debut in Vain

South Africa decided to bat first and scored a solid total of 304/6. Breetzke made history by scoring the highest-ever ODI score on debut, playing an excellent knock of 150 off 148 balls with 11 fours and 5 sixes. Jason Smith supported him well with 41 runs in a 93-run partnership for the second wicket after Bavuma got out early.

After Kyle Verreynne was dismissed cheaply for just one, Breetzke teamed up with Wiaan Mulder, and together they scored 131 runs. Mulder played quickly, scoring 64 off 60 balls. For New Zealand, Matt Henry and William O’Rourke each took two wickets, while Michael Bracewell got Verreynne’s wicket.

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Williamson Guides New Zealand to win

Chasing 305, the Black Caps got off to a steady start as Will Young and Devon Conway put together a 50-run stand inside 10 overs. However, Young departed for 19 after edging one to Eathan Bosch. But South Africa’s hopes of tightening their grip on the game faded quickly as Conway and Williamson took control. The pair put on a mammoth 187-run partnership, keeping the chase well in New Zealand’s grasp.

Conway was unlucky to miss his century, getting out for 97 to Junior Dala. However, Williamson continued his dominance, bringing up his hundred off just 72 balls. He became the second-fastest player to score 7,000 runs in ODIs, just behind Hashim Amla. His brilliant unbeaten knock of 133 runs from 113 balls, which included 13 fours and 2 sixes, helped New Zealand win the match with eight balls remaining.

The Black Caps have reached the final and are now waiting to see who they'll face either Pakistan or South Africa depending on the result of their match.

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