Auckland, 20 March (H.S.): New Zealand Women put past disappointments behind them to defeat South Africa by six wickets in the third T20I at Eden Park on Friday, taking a 2–1 lead in the five‑match series and moving one win away from securing the trophy.South Africa Women, after winning the toss and electing to bat, posted 149/7 from 20 overs.

Captain Laura Wolvaardt led the innings with a composed 37 off 39 balls, including three boundaries. Annerie Derksen chopped in brisk fashion to score 27 off 18, while Chloe Tryon chipped in with 15 off 12. Captain Wolvaardt’s 34* off the final 20 balls carried her side to a respectable total.

On the bowling front, Sophie Devine and Suzie Bates each picked up two wickets, while Jess Kerr and Rosemary Mayer weighed in with one apiece.In reply, New Zealand reached 152/4 in 18.4 overs, surpassing the 150‑run target with ease. Isabel Gaze and captain Amelia Kerr set the platform with a quick 17 off 15 and 30 off 28 respectively at the top.

Sophie Devine then stroked through the innings, clubbing 55* off 38 balls, laced with six fours and a six. Maddy Green provided solid support with 34* off 25 balls, and their unbroken partnership sealed the chase well inside the allotted overs.

Devine’s all‑round performance earned her Player of the Match honours. The fourth T20I will be played on March 22 at the Sky Stadium in Wellington, while the fifth and final encounter is scheduled for March 25 at the Hagley Oval in Christchurch.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar