New Zealand qualify for tri-series final, defeating South Africa

New Zealand has defeated South Africa by six wickets in the second ODI match of the Tri-Nation series at Gaddafi Stadium Lahore.

New Zealand won the toss against South Africa and opted to field first. The African nation posted a competitive total of 304 runs for the loss of six wickets in their allotted 50 overs.

In response, New Zealand chased the target in 48.4 overs while losing only four wickets.

New Zealand has now qualified for the final of the series. The winner of Wednesday's Pakistan vs South Africa match will face New Zealand in the final.

South Africa's Innings

South African captain Temba Bavuma was dismissed after scoring 20 runs, with the team's total at 37 runs. The second wicket fell at 130 runs when Jason Smith was run out after scoring 41 runs. Just two runs later, South Africa lost their third wicket as Kyle Verreynne was bowled for one run.

The highlight of South Africa's innings was opener Matthew Breetzke, who played a magnificent knock of 150 runs before being caught out when the score reached 263 runs. The fifth wicket fell at 300 runs, with Wiaan Mulder scoring 64 runs before being dismissed. Soon after, Senuran Muthusamy was caught out for two runs, as South Africa ended their innings at 304/6.

From New Zealand's bowling attack, Matt Henry took two wickets for 59 runs in his 10 overs, while Will O'Rourke also claimed two wickets for 72 runs. Michael Bracewell chipped in with one wicket for 43 runs.

Matthew Breetzke's outstanding performance saw him etching his name in the record books. He became only the fourth South African to score a century on ODI debut. Moreover, he set a never before seen record by becoming the first-ever player to score 150 runs on his ODI debut.

New Zealand's Run Chase

Chasing 305, New Zealand started steady, reaching 50/1 in 10 overs. Opener Will Young was dismissed after scoring 19 runs, caught out early in the innings.

Kane Williamson scored a brilliant 133 runs, while Devon Convey was dismissed for 97 runs. Apart from them, Glenn Phillips scored 28 runs.

Team Changes

New Zealand made one change in their lineup, bringing in Devon Conway in place of Rachin Ravindra. Meanwhile, South Africa handed ODI debuts to four players: Matthew Breetzke, Mihlali Mpongwana, Ethan Bosch, and Senuran Muthusamy.

Previous Match Recap

New Zealand defeated Pakistan by 78 runs in the first match of the tri-series. The Kiwis had set a challenging target of 331 runs, and in response, Pakistan was bowled out for 252 runs.