In what turned out to be a historic match, New Zealand pulled off the highest successful chase in women’s ODI history, defeating South Africa by two wickets, thanks to a sensational unbeaten 179 from Amelia Kerr. Chasing a huge target of 347 at the Basin Reserve, Wellington, New Zealand finished on 350/8 in 49.4 overs, sealing victory with just two balls to spare. Kerr’s 179* came off 139 deliveries, including 23 fours and a six, easily qualifying as one of the greatest innings in women’s cricket. Earlier, South Africa posted 346/6, powered by Anneke Bosch’s 91, Laura Wolvaardt’s 69, and Chloe Tryon, who remained unbeaten on 52.
New Zealand’s start was shaky as they lost early wickets and slipped to 130/4. But Kerr, meanwhile, brilliantly anchored the innings, holding one end even though wickets fell at regular intervals. She and Isabella Gaze stitched a key 120-run partnership, with Gaze scoring a quickfire 68. Their stand brought the chase back to life, giving the hosts the upper hand.
After reaching her century, Kerr accelerated, bringing up her hundred off 90 balls, and then adding 79 more in the next 49. Despite losing partners, Kerr led the innings, mixing calculated aggression with caution. With 11 runs required in the final over, Kerr held her nerve, striking a boundary to finish the game and make history.
“Pretty special. I think at the halfway mark we were probably disappointed with our effort in the field, but we always knew it was a good wicket and you’re always in the game. I think that was the key, that when we’re in the changing room, we still believed we could win, and once I got in, I knew I had to keep going,” Kerr said in the post-match presentation as quoted by the ICC.
