New Zealand secured an 8-wicket victory over South Africa in the 3rd T20I, taking a 2-1 lead in the series.
Ferguson’s Bowling Performance Earns Him Player of the Match
Lockie Ferguson was named Player of the Match for his bowling, with figures of 1 for 9 from his 4 overs. Ferguson said that the pitch was good and he got some extra pace. He added that he just bowled with great pace, and things worked out for him.
Ferguson also shared that he wanted more wickets, but he is happy with his figures. He ended by saying that it was a strong performance from the boys, and they will try to carry on with the same momentum.
South Africa’s Batting Woes
South Africa were asked to bat first and found it tough to cope with the pace and bounce. The spinners also made life difficult. After being reduced to 68/6, a couple of partnerships did develop, but the home side managed to cut them short each time.
A handy 26-run knock from Nqobani Mokoena gave the bowlers something to bowl at. All 6 bowling options used picked up at least a wicket, and apart from Kyle Jamieson, everyone held their own. South Africa were held to 136 on a testing surface.
The skipper of South Africa, Keshav Maharaj, said it was disappointing to lose so many wickets in the Powerplay and afterwards it was hard to come back. Maharaj added that some lower-order hitting gave them some runs, but summarised that their batting in the first 10 overs put them on the back foot.
Maharaj believes that they need to adapt quickly to the conditions. He mentioned that they are a young side but feels they are still in a good position in the series and will try to come back stronger. On Nqobani Mokoena, Maharaj says he is still young and has a phenomenal future ahead.
Conway and Latham Anchor New Zealand’s Chase
In pursuit of 137, Devon Conway and Tom Latham were in for a stern examination in the opening exchanges, but after the first three overs, the Proteas quicks went searching. That led to a few loose deliveries, which the two openers were quick to cash in on. Conway and Latham grew in.
Santner Pleased with New Zealand’s Performance
New Zealand’s captain, Mitchell Santner, said that the pitch was a bit different for the boys, but they enjoyed playing here. He added that their plan was simple, just to bowl at the stumps. Santner mentioned that Latham and Conway started brilliantly, and they had a perfect start.
He also said that the bowlers bowled really well in these conditions, and they will try and carry on with the same momentum and ends by saying that he is happy with the win.
The two teams will meet again on Sunday, 22nd March, in New Zealand’s capital, Wellington. The fourth T20I will get underway at 6.15 am GMT.