Wicketkeeper batter Connor Esterhuizen’s half-century and a strong bowling performance by Gerald Coetzee, Ottneil Baartman, Prenelan Subrayen, and Keshav Maharaj led South Africa to a 19-run victory over New Zealand in the fourth T20I. South Africa set a target of 164/5, with Esterhuizen scoring 57 runs. In response, New Zealand was bowled out for 145 in 18.5 overs.
South Africa, opting to bat first, faced an early setback with Mulder’s quick dismissal. However, Esterhuizen and Tony De Zorzi’s partnership of 81 runs laid a solid foundation. Esterhuizen reached his fifty in 33 balls during the 10th over, boosting South Africa’s total.
New Zealand, captained by Jimmy Neesham, fought back by taking crucial wickets. Esterhuizen departed after scoring 57, and De Zorzi contributed 23 off 21 balls. Rubin Hermann’s unbeaten 28 and valuable contributions from Jason Smith and Dian Forrester helped South Africa reach a competitive score. New Zealand’s Kyle Jamieson claimed two wickets, while Zakary Foulkes, Ben Sears, and Cole McConchie took one each.
