Will O’Rourke star with the ball for New Zealand
The second day in Hamilton unfolded with New Zealand making a strong statement, dismissing South Africa for 242. The Black Caps managed to pick the last four Proteas’ wickets in the first hour of play, as the Proteas resumed from 220/6. Debutant Will O’Rourke emerged as the star for New Zealand, destroying the South African lower order by claiming three of the four wickets to fall. O’Rourke concluded with impressive figures of 4/59, establishing himself as the most successful bowler for New Zealand in the innings.
However, the Black Caps’ batting response encountered early hurdles as Devon Conway was dismissed for a duck before lunch, leaving New Zealand at a precarious 1-1. Conway’s recent struggles with the bat added to the challenges faced by the home team.
Dane Piedt’s fifer decimates Blackcaps batting lineup
Post-lunch, Kane Williamson (43) and Tom Latham (40) steadied the ship with a 74-run partnership. Nevertheless, Piedt’s spin proved effective, removing both key batters and leaving New Zealand struggling at 86/3. Rachin Ravindra and Will Young counterattacked, guiding the team past the hundred-run mark and safely to tea. In the third session, witnessed New Zealand’s promising start turning into an epic collapse. Ravindra’s dismissal triggered a flurry of wickets, with Tom Blundell, Glenn Phillips and Will Young falling quickly. Tim Southee, the skipper didn’t last long as he top edged a pull and Matt Henry was run out courtesy of a mix up further deepened the crisis, reducing New Zealand to 183/9.
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Explosive cameo from Neil Wagner
Despite the looming disaster, Neil Wagner‘s explosive 33, featuring two sixes, provided some resistance, allowing the hosts to inch closer to South Africa’s total of 242. Piedt eventually put an end to New Zealand’s resistance, stumping Wagner. The stars of the show for South Africa were Dane Piedt and Dane Paterson (3/39), who collectively picked up eight wickets, leaving the hosts in a precarious position.
Here’s how Twitter reacted:
The #Proteas are on fire in Hamilton. 31 runs lead and Dane Piedt messes up with New Zealand plans.
— Ayanda Frances Felem (@AyandaFelemZA) February 14, 2024
"What a comeback from Dane Piedt!His best bowling figures help South Africa bowl out New Zealand for 211, giving SA a lead of 31 runs. Thrilling performance! #NZvSA #Cricket" pic.twitter.com/fwHlEoAxqj
— Hemant ( Sports Active ) (@hemantbhavsar86) February 14, 2024
Dane Piedt with a 5fer on his Proteas return. Quite a few on here doubted his return to the national setup. Shukri for sure got that one right.
5/89
SA take a lead of 31 runs into the 2nd innings. Not a massive lead but it's something we can at least build on. #NZvSA
— Lawrence Bailey
(@LawrenceBailey0) February 14, 2024
An exquisite 5-wicket haul from Dane Piedt as the Proteas edge out the Black Caps on the 2nd day in Seddon Park
— Proteas Men (@ProteasMenCSA) February 14, 2024
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