New Zealand secured a 68-run victory over South Africa in the second T20I in Hamilton, levelling the series at 1-1.
Ferguson Praises Black Caps’ Adaptability
Lockie Ferguson believes New Zealand’s resurgence was built on adaptability. He noted the team talks a lot about adapting to conditions.
Ferguson highlighted the difference between the first and second T20Is. Bowled out for 91 in Mount Maunganui, the hosts responded with 175 for 6 on a testing Hamilton surface. Ferguson felt 175 was an outstanding total.
He acknowledged that adapting isn’t always easy, especially when a wicket doesn’t play as expected. He said the Hamilton game was a good example of the Black Caps adapting very quickly.
Devon Conway top-scored with 60. Ferguson observed that Conway wasn’t as fluid as he usually looks, but still got the runs that were needed on a challenging wicket to post a great total.
Ferguson’s Return and Sears’ Impact
The second T20I marked a return for Ferguson, who had briefly stepped away to be with family following the birth of his first child. He relished being back in familiar conditions and watching the next wave of New Zealand cricketers step up.
Ferguson had been looking forward to quite a lot of T20 cricket at home. He said he loves playing in New Zealand in front of the home crowd, in conditions he’s used to. He was stoked to get a game in.
Ferguson felt the bowling group as a collective were great, making his job a bit easier with pressure from both ends.
Ferguson was pleased to see Ben Sears make his mark with a three-wicket burst. He noted that Sears has still got more pace in him.
Ferguson added it’s good to see Sears get some consistent training time. He observed Sears working on his game every training session, running in hard and working on different change-ups and lines, asking the right questions.
Ferguson believes this development will stand Sears in good stead in the next few years and throughout his career. He said it was a pleasure to watch Sears get extra bounce and scare some of the batters.
Looking Ahead to Eden Park
The series now moves to Eden Park. Ferguson said it can be daunting playing there. The crowd feels like they’re right on your back.
Ferguson said Eden Park has shorter boundaries straight.