A thrilling contest in Hamilton saw South Africa Women level the five-match T20I series against New Zealand, thanks to a stunning late cameo from rising all-rounder Kayla Reyneke. 🔥
Match Summary (2nd T20I – Hamilton)
- 📍 Venue: Seddon Park
- 🇿🇦 South Africa: 177/5 (20 overs)
- 🇳🇿 New Zealand: Fell short by 18 runs
- 🏆 Player of the Match: Kayla Reyneke
Reyneke’s Game-Changing Knock
The 20-year-old delivered a match-defining performance under pressure:
- Smashed 28 off just 9 balls* 🚀
- Hit three consecutive sixes in the final over
- Took on experienced bowler Sophie Devine
- Powered South Africa to a competitive total
👉 That late burst proved to be the decisive difference in the match.
Captain’s Reaction
South Africa skipper Laura Wolvaardt praised the youngster:
“It was hard to just come in and get going straight away… not sure how Kayla did that. That was some really clean power hitting.”
She also highlighted the team’s strong batting depth, calling Reyneke’s power-hitting a huge asset. 💪
Rising Star with Big Potential
- Former U19 captain who led South Africa to the final of the ICC Women’s Under-19 T20 World Cup 2025
- Impressed on senior debut vs Pakistan
- Now making an impact early in her international career
Reyneke herself said:
“Batting with Wolvaardt is a dream… I’m enjoying every moment.”
🇳🇿 New Zealand Fightback Effort
- Captain Melie Kerr led from the front
- Scored 32 runs
- Took 2 wickets
- Multiple batters got starts, but none converted into a match-winning innings
Kerr noted the match highlighted how small moments decide tight games.
- 1st T20I: New Zealand won by 80 runs
- 2nd T20I: South Africa won by 18 runs
👉 Series tied 1-1
Upcoming Matches:
- 3rd T20I – Auckland (March 20)
- 4th T20I – Wellington (March 22)
- 5th T20I – Christchurch (March 25)
