New Zealand Women sealed a convincing ODI series victory over South Africa Women with a commanding 66-run win in the third and final match at Wellington on Saturday, capping off a strong all-round performance in the three-match series. New Zealand, inserted to bat, posted a big total of 306/7 in 50 overs. The innings was anchored by a gutsy knock from Maddy Green, who churned out a match-winning performance, scoring a blistering 141 unbeaten.
Brooke Halliday also delivered a strong performance, contributing a crucial 98, as the duo stitched together a game-changing partnership of 211 runs after early setbacks. Their 211-run stand is the highest fourth-wicket stand for New Zealand in Women’s ODIs. Meanwhile, chasing the target, South Africa Women began nicely, with captain Laura Wolvaardt leading the charge with a lovely 69. However, the chase lost momentum in the middle overs as New Zealand’s bowlers turned the screw.
The standout performer with the ball was Rosemary Mair, who sent down a decisive spell, claiming five wickets and demolishing South Africa's batting lineup. Amelia Kerr claimed two wickets as New Zealand bowled South Africa out for 240 in 46.1 overs to secure the victory. With this result, New Zealand successfully clinched the ODI series 2-1, which forms part of the ongoing ICC Women’s Championship cycle.