Auckland, New Zealand – Sophie Devine continued her remarkable form, delivering with both bat and ball to secure a series victory for the White Ferns over South Africa in the fourth T20 International. New Zealand clinched the series with a six-wicket win at Eden Park, taking an unassailable 3-1 lead with one match remaining. Devine’s performance underscored her enduring impact on the game, proving that age is no barrier to excellence.
The victory was built on a strong all-round performance, spearheaded by Devine’s contributions and a career-best bowling spell from Jess Kerr. New Zealand successfully chased down a target of 160, reaching 152-4 in 18.4 overs. This series win is a crucial confidence boost for the White Ferns as they prepare for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026, providing valuable match practice and momentum.
South Africa, after losing the toss for the third consecutive game, posted a competitive 159-6 from their 20 overs. However, New Zealand’s attack, led by Kerr, initially kept the Proteas’ top order in check. Kerr finished with impressive figures of 3-16, her best T20I performance to date. While the later overs saw South Africa’s middle and lower order accelerate, led by Annerie Dercksen, the White Ferns managed to restrict their total.
The chase began with New Zealand setting a target of 160 for victory. Devine, playing in her 150th T20 International, once again proved to be the key figure, smashing 64 runs off 48 balls, including six fours and four sixes. This innings marked her 23rd half-century in the format and completed New Zealand’s highest run chase on home soil. She found solid support from captain Melie Kerr, who contributed 30 runs, and Maddy Green, who finished with 34 not out.
Earlier in the match, Devine also made her mark with the ball, taking 2 wickets for 21 runs. Suzie Bates also contributed with the ball, claiming 2-10 from her two overs. South Africa’s innings saw a maiden T20 half-century from Annerie Dercksen, who scored 50 runs off 30 deliveries, and a late cameo from Kayla Reyneke, who remained unbeaten on 34 off 20 balls. However, these efforts weren’t enough to overcome New Zealand’s determined performance.
The White Ferns had begun the series strongly, securing an 80-run win in Mount Maunganui. South Africa responded with a close victory in Hamilton, but New Zealand quickly regained control, demonstrating their depth and resilience. The series is a key preparation point for both sides ahead of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026.
New Zealand can now seal a 4-1 series victory when the teams travel to Christchurch for the final game of the Kiwi summer. The match will provide another opportunity for both teams to fine-tune their preparations ahead of the global tournament.
Devine was named Player of the Match for her all-round performance, showcasing her ability to impact the game with both bat and ball. Her unbeaten 55 off 38 balls, featuring seven boundaries, was particularly crucial in guiding New Zealand to victory.
The White Ferns’ victory highlights their growing strength in women’s cricket and sets a positive tone as they seem ahead to the challenges of the T20 World Cup. The team’s ability to perform consistently under pressure, combined with the individual brilliance of players like Devine and Kerr, positions them as strong contenders in the upcoming tournament.
What comes next for the White Ferns is the final match of the series against South Africa in Christchurch, offering a chance to complete a dominant series win. Beyond that, the focus will intensify on preparations for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026, where they will aim to translate this recent success onto the global stage.
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