Tim Robinson’s unbeaten 75 and pace duo Henry-Duffy power New Zealand to 21-run victory over South Africa in T20 Tri-Series clash

New Zealand bounced back strongly in the second match of the ongoing T20 Tri-Series in Zimbabwe, defeating South Africa by 21 runs at Harare Sports Club. An unbeaten half-century from Tim Robinson and a combined bowling effort led by Matt Henry and Jacob Duffy sealed the win for the Champions Trophy 2025 finalists. 

After being asked to bat, New Zealand scored 173/5 in their 20 overs. The innings was anchored by Tim Robinson, who played a match-winning knock of 75 off 57 balls*, including six fours and three sixes. Despite early setbacks with both openers, Tim Seifert (22) and Devon Conway (9) falling cheaply, Robinson held the innings together.

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He was well supported in the latter stages by Bevon Jacobs, who added a crucial 44 off 30 balls* with one four and three sixes, helping the visitors finish strongly.

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In reply, South Africa were off to a good start as young opener Luan-Dre Pretorius scored a quick 27 off 17 balls, smashing six boundaries. However, the momentum shifted as New Zealand’s pacers tightened their grip on the match.

Matt Henry and Jacob Duffy were the standouts with the ball, each picking up three wickets to shift the momentum of the game in the Proteas’ chase. Despite late resistance from Dewald Brevis (35) and George Linde (30), South Africa were bowled out for 152 in 18.2 overs, falling short of the target by 21 runs.

With this win, New Zealand gained early momentum in the tri-nation series, while South Africa will look to bounce back in their next fixture.