Matthew Breetzke became the first player to score 150 on ODI debut and the fourth South African to hit a century in his first match. His knock, which accounted for nearly half of South Africa’s total, helped them post 304/6 against New Zealand in the tri-series match.
Breetzke, not part of the Champions Trophy squad, showcased his strength square of the wicket, particularly with the cut shot. He started cautiously but, alongside Wiaan Mulder, anchored the innings with a 131-run fourth-wicket stand. South Africa accelerated in the final 10 overs, adding 108 runs, with Breetzke leading the charge.
New Zealand’s bowlers had their moments. Matt Henry used variations effectively, while spinners Mitchell Santner and Mitchell Bracewell controlled the middle overs. Will O’Rourke, who troubled South Africa early, struggled in the death, conceding 34 runs in his last three overs.
Temba Bavuma gave South Africa a brisk start but fell to O’Rourke, leaving them at 46/1 in 10 overs. Jason Smith (41) and Breetzke built a 93-run second-wicket stand before Smith’s run-out stalled momentum. Kyle Verreynne fell cheaply, and South Africa hit just one boundary in 11 overs.
Breetzke shifted gears after reaching 90, bringing up his century off 128 balls. His next fifty came in just 20 deliveries, including a 20-run over off Ben Sears. He eventually fell to Henry’s slower ball at 150. Mulder (64*) took charge in the final overs, ensuring South Africa crossed 300 with a well-timed boundary.
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