By Levy Masiteng
South Africa secured a 33-run victory over New Zealand in the fifth T20I in Christchurch on Wednesday, sealing the series 3-2 and ending the tour on a high note.
The result offers a timely lift for the Proteas camp, coming shortly after South Africa’s women suffered defeat in their own T20I outing against New Zealand.
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South Africa’s innings was given shape by useful contributions through the middle before Connor Esterhuizen turned the match in the closing overs.
Wiaan Mulder made 31 off 29 and Rubin Hermann added 39 off 31 to keep the visitors moving, but South Africa appeared to be heading for a lower total until Esterhuizen changed the tempo.
The right-hander produced a blistering knock, reaching his half-century in 25 deliveries before finishing with a commanding 75 off 33 balls. Alongside Dian Forrester, who made an unbeaten 21 off 13, he helped propel the Proteas to a formidable 187 for 4.
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New Zealand struggled to keep up with the required rate, although Bevon Jacobs hit 36 off 19 balls and James Neesham tried to keep the chase alive. South Africa’s bowlers held their nerve, with Gerald Coetzee, Wiaan Mulder and Ottneil Baartman claiming two wickets apiece as the hosts closed on 154 for 8.
Esterhuizen’s explosive innings ultimately proved the difference, capping a well-rounded South African performance and handing the visitors both the match and the series victory.