Devine Masterclass Secures Series Lead for White Ferns

A dominant all-round performance by Sophie Devine propelled New Zealand to a six-wicket victory over South Africa in the third T20I at Eden Park, Auckland, on Friday, March 20, 2026. The win gives the White Ferns a 2-1 lead in the five-match series.^[1][2][3][4]

Devine Shines with Bat and Ball

Chasing a target of 150, New Zealand reached the total with eight balls to spare. Devine was instrumental, scoring an unbeaten 54 off 34 balls, including six boundaries and a six.^[2][4] Earlier, she claimed 2-21 with the ball, restricting South Africa to 149-7.^[3][4]

South Africa Struggles to Post a Competitive Total

After winning the toss and electing to bat, South Africa found themselves under pressure early on. Openers Tamzin Brits and Sune Luus were dismissed cheaply by Rosemary Mair and Jess Kerr, respectively, leaving the Proteas at 39-2 after the powerplay.^[2] A 51-run partnership between Annerie Dercksen (27) and captain Laura Wolvaardt attempted to stabilize the innings, but Devine broke the stand by dismissing Dercksen.^[4]

Suzie Bates, playing a key role with the ball, took 2-10, further denting South Africa’s momentum. Wolvaardt was run out for 37 off 39 balls, and the Proteas slipped to 101-5.^[3] A late flourish from Kayla Reyneke, who smashed an unbeaten 34 off 20 balls with two sixes in the final over, lifted South Africa’s total to 149-7.^[3][4]

White Ferns Navigate Tricky Chase

New Zealand’s chase began shakily, losing Georgia Plimmer (4) and Isabella Gaze (17) early in the powerplay. A 30-run stand between captain Amelia Kerr and Devine brought the target down, but South Africa struck back, dismissing Kerr and Brooke Halliday in quick succession.^[4]

Yet, an unbroken 79-run partnership between Devine and Maddy Green (35 not out off 27 balls) sealed the victory for the White Ferns.^[2] Devine reached her half-century off 29 balls, and Green contributed with a six of her own.^[4]

Series Continues in Wellington

The White Ferns have the opportunity to secure the series win on Sunday, March 22, 2026, when they face South Africa in the fourth T20I in Wellington, as part of a double-header with the Black Caps and Proteas men’s teams.^[2]

Score Summary

South Africa: 149-7 (Wolvaardt 37. Bates 2-10, Devine 2-21)
New Zealand: 152-4 (Devine 54 not out, Green 34 not out)
Result: New Zealand win by six wickets^[3]