Esterhuizen, SA bowlers lift Proteas to series-levelling win
Esterhuizen, SA bowlers lift Proteas to series-levelling win
Esterhuizen's 57 and a disciplined bowling show powered South Africa to a series-levelling win against an under-strength New Zealand.
South Africa looked to be cruising to a modest total after posting 164, but their bowlers stole the show, delivering a breathtaking display that left New Zealand with little answer. Esterhuizen struck a patient 57, anchoring the innings and providing the platform on which the Proteas built a competitive total.
Then came the all-star bowling effort, with the South African attack hitting their marks at crucial moments and tightening the screws at both ends. The discipline and consistency of the bowlers kept the visitors under pressure throughout, dismantling a patched-up New Zealand lineup and ensuring the home side could defend what looked like a below-par score.
With the series poised at 1-1, the result injects fresh momentum into the contest and sets up a thrilling finale. South Africa will take confidence from the way their bowlers.execute and Esterhuizen’s finishing touches with the bat, while New Zealand will be eager to regroup and respond in the decider.
