NZ Vs SA 2nd ODI: Williamson’s 133, Breetzke’s 150 In Tri-Series

New Zealand defeated South Africa by 6 wickets in the 2nd ODI of the Tri-Series at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium. While debutant Matthew Breetzke stole the show with a record-breaking 150, Kane Williamson (133*) and Devon Conway (97) guided New Zealand to a smooth chase of 305 . This victory secured New Zealand’s spot in the Tri-Series final, a key warm-up for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy .

Matthew Breetzke became the first player to score 150 runs on ODI debut, breaking Desmond Haynes’ 1978 record .
Kane Williamson scored his 14th ODI century, leading New Zealand’s chase with a 187-run partnership with Conway .
The Tri-Series helps teams prepare for the Champions Trophy 2025, which starts in Karachi on February 19 .

Matthew Breetzke’s Record-Breaking Debut

A Dream Start for the Proteas Opener

South Africa’s Matthew Breetzke made history by scoring 150 runs off 148 balls in his first ODI match. His innings included 11 fours and 5 sixes, helping South Africa post 304/6 . Despite losing captain Temba Bavuma early, Breetzke built partnerships with Jason Smith (93 runs) and Wiaan Mulder (131 runs) to stabilize the innings .

Breaking Desmond Haynes’ 46-Year-Old Record

Breetzke’s 150 surpassed West Indies legend Desmond Haynes’ previous record of 148 on ODI debut (1978). He also became the fourth South African to score a century in his first ODI, joining Colin Ingram, Reeza Hendricks, and Bavuma . His aggressive batting after reaching 100 (48 runs off 20 balls) showcased his potential as a future star .

Mixed Emotions for Breetzke

Despite his heroics, Breetzke was excluded from South Africa’s Champions Trophy 2025 squad. His performance, however, puts pressure on selectors to reconsider . Teammates and opponents, including New Zealand players, applauded him as he left the field .

Kane Williamson’s Masterclass Seals NZ Victory

Williamson-Conway Partnership Dominates

Chasing 305, New Zealand lost Will Young early, but Kane Williamson and Devon Conway added 187 runs for the second wicket. Conway narrowly missed his century (97 off 107 balls), while Williamson’s unbeaten 133* off 113 balls included 12 boundaries and 3 sixes . Their partnership made the chase look effortless on a batting-friendly pitch .

Williamson Reaches 7000 ODI Runs

During his innings, Williamson became the second-fastest New Zealander to reach 7,000 ODI runs (159 innings), trailing only Hashim Amla (150 innings). His calm leadership and precise shot selection earned him the Player of the Match award .

Late Fightback Fails to Save South Africa

South Africa’s Senuran Muthusamy briefly revived hopes by dismissing Daryl Mitchell and Tom Latham in quick succession. However, Glenn Phillips (28*) supported Williamson to seal the win with 8 balls remaining .

Tri-Series as Preparation for Champions Trophy 2025

Karachi Hosts the Final and Champions Trophy Opener

The Tri-Series final will be played in Karachi, the same venue hosting the Champions Trophy opener (Pakistan vs. New Zealand on February 19). Teams are using this series to adapt to Pakistani pitches and conditions .

South Africa’s Squad Challenges

South Africa fielded four debutants (including Breetzke) in this match, as many first-choice players rested ahead of the Champions Trophy. Their bowling attack, led by Lungi Ngidi and Tabraiz Shamsi, struggled against New Zealand’s experienced batters .

New Zealand’s Strong Form

With two consecutive wins, New Zealand enters the Champions Trophy as a strong contender. Key players like Williamson, Conway, and Glenn Phillips (who scored a century in the first ODI) are in top form .