1st ODI: New Zealand stun SA with unexpected victory
Franklin heroics secures one-wicket win over hosts.
File photo of the man-of-the-match James Franklin. PHOTO: AFP/FILE
New Zealand defeated South Africa by one wicket in a thrilling finish to the first One-Day International of a three-game series at Boland Park yesterday.
Man-of-the-match James Franklin and fast-bowler Kyle Mills lifted the tourists from a teetering 140 for seven to an unprecedented win to wrap up the match in just below 46 overs.
“It’s a nice way to come back in,” said Franklin, according to ESPNCricinfo. “It was a case of just batting as deep as we could, and of whittling down the runs required.”
Earlier, South Africa were dismissed for 208, with only Faf du Plessis managing a half-century. Kane Williamson and debutant Mitchell McClenaghan bagged four wickets each.
New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum said he was satisfied with his side’s performance against one of the top teams in the world.
“I think we are a more confident ODI side at the moment,” said McCullum.
Published in The Express Tribune, January 20th, 2013.