The opening ODI between New Zealand – South Africa at the Hagley Oval was an absolute thriller that set the tone for this series perfectly. New Zealand posted a competitive 268, largely thanks to a brilliant 85 from Maddy Green and a solid contribution from Amelia Kerr, but South Africa’s chase was a masterclass in grit. Despite a mid-innings wobble after Annerie Dercksen’s resilient 72, the Proteas held their nerve in a frantic finish. It ultimately came down to the final delivery, where debutant Kayla Reyneke turned into the hero by smashing a six to seal a two-wicket win. It was a heart-wrenching result for the White Ferns, who seemed to have the game in their grasp, but South Africa’s ability to stay calm under immense pressure has given them a crucial 1-0 lead.
Squads:
New Zealand Women’s Cricket Team
Amelia Kerr (C), Suzie Bates, Flora Devonshire, Isabella Gaze, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Bree Illing, Jess Kerr, Kayley Knight, Rosemary Mair, Nensi Patel, Georgia Plimmer, Izzy Sharp
South Africa Women’s Cricket Team
Laura Wolvaardt (C), Anneke Bosch, Tazmin Brits, Nadine de Klerk, Annerie Dercksen, Ayanda Hlubi, Sinalo Jafta, Ayabonga Khaka, Masabata Klaas, Sune Luus, Karabo Meso, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Kayla Reyneke, Tumi Sekhukhune, Chloe Tryon
Where to Watch: New Zealand Women vs South Africa Women – 2nd ODI
Date: April 1, 2026 (Wednesday)
Time: 3:30 AM IST
Venue: Basin Reserve, Wellington, New Zealand
Broadcast & Live Streaming Details:
India – FanCode, Sony Sports TEN Network
New Zealand – Sky Go app, Sky Sports Now
South Africa – SuperSport
Fixtures:
1st T20I – March 15: Bay Oval – New Zealand won by 80 runs
2nd T20I – March 17: Seddon Park – South Africa won by 18 runs
3rd T20I – March 20: Eden Park – New Zealand won by 6 wickets
4th T20I – March 22: Sky Stadium – New Zealand won by 6 wickets
5th T20I – March 25: Hagley Oval – New Zealand won by 92 runs
1st ODI – March 29: Hagley Oval – South Africa won by 2 wickets
2nd ODI – April 1: Basin Reserve – 3:30 AM IST
3rd ODI – April 4: Basin Reserve – 3:30 AM IST
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