The first T20I at Mount Maunganui was a one-sided affair as New Zealand clinched a massive 80-run win to take the lead against South Africa. Batting first, New Zealand posted a formidable 190, powered by a 146-run stand between Amelia Kerr (78) and Georgia Plimmer (63). South Africa’s chase never really got going; despite a solid 29 from Tazmin Brits, they were stifled by Sophie Devine’s clinical four-wicket haul and eventually restricted to 110. It was a statement performance from the hosts, leaving the Proteas with plenty to figure out before the second game.
The action now shifts to Hamilton’s Seddon Park, a venue historically known for its balanced surface but one that has recently favored the seamers. For South Africa to level the series, they’ll need a much more proactive effort from their middle order and better execution at the death to contain New Zealand’s aggressive hitters. With clear skies and pleasant conditions expected, the stage is set for a high-stakes encounter.
Head-to-Head (T20Is):
- Total Matches Played – 18
- New Zealand Wins – 13
- South Africa Wins – 4
- N/R – 1
Historically, the rivalry between these two sides has been largely dominated by New Zealand, who hold a commanding lead in the head-to-head record. Out of the 18 T20Is played so far, New Zealand has walked away with 13 victories, leaving South Africa with just 4 wins to their name. While South Africa have made significant strides in world cricket recently, these numbers suggest they still face a massive psychological and tactical hurdle whenever they come up against the Kiwis in the shortest format.
Squads:
New Zealand Women’s Cricket Team
Amelia Kerr (C), Suzie Bates, Sophie Devine, Flora Devonshire, Isabella Gaze, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Bree Illing, Polly Inglis, Jess Kerr, Rosemary Mair, Nensi Patel, Georgia Plimmer, Izzy Sharp, Lea Tahuhu
South Africa Women’s Cricket Team
Nadine de Klerk, Tazmin Brits, Tumi Sekhukhune, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Annerie Dercksen, Ayanda Hlubi, Karabo Meso, Kayla Reyneke, Dane van Niekerk, Chloe Tryon, Masabata Klaas, Ayabonga Khaka, Sune Luus, Laura Wolvaardt (C), Sinalo Jafta
Where to Watch: New Zealand Women vs South Africa Women – 2nd T20I
Date: March 17, 2026 (Tuesday)
Time: 7:15 AM IST
Venue: Seddon Park, Hamilton
Broadcast & Live Streaming Details:
India – FanCode, Sony Sports TEN Network
New Zealand – Sky Go app, Sky Sports Now
South Africa – SuperSport
New Zealand Women vs South Africa Women Fixtures:
1st T20I – March 15: Bay Oval – New Zealand won by 80 runs
2nd T20I – March 17: Seddon Park – 7:15 AM IST
3rd T20I – March 20: Eden Park – 7:15 AM IST
4th T20I – March 22: Sky Stadium – 7:15 AM IST
5th T20I – March 25: Hagley Oval – 7:15 AM IST
1st ODI – March 29: Hagley Oval – 3:30 AM IST
2nd ODI – April 1: Basin Reserve – 6:30 AM IST
3rd ODI – April 4: Basin Reserve – 6:30 AM IST
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