New Zealand pulled off a thrilling victory against South Africa in the final of the Tri-Series at Harare Sports Club on July 26 (Saturday), thanks to a superb last-over performance by Matt Henry. With just six runs to defend in the final over of a high-stakes T20 match, the experienced Kiwi pacer showed nerves of steel and tactical brilliance, leading his side to a dramatic three-run win.
South Africa on Course Before Final Over Twist
Chasing 181 for victory, South Africa looked in control with young batting sensation Dewald Brevis on 31 off just 10 balls, and George Linde playing a steady hand at the other end with 10 off 9. The Proteas needed just six runs from the final over, a task that seemed manageable given the explosive form of their batters.
However, Matt Henry had other plans. After conceding 16 runs in his first two overs, he returned for the final six balls with calmness and clarity. His first delivery—a well-directed bouncer—caught Brevis off guard and set the tone for the over.
Brevis, trying to finish the game early, attempted a big hit on the second delivery but was caught brilliantly by Michael Bracewell at the boundary. Bracewell timed his jump to perfection, stepped over the ropes, and came back in to complete a stunning catch.
The next ball saw a dropped opportunity as Bracewell couldn’t hold on to a tough chance offered by Corbin Bosch. Despite the miss, Henry kept his composure. A double on the third ball left South Africa needing four runs off the last two balls.
Tactical Genius Seals the Game for New Zealand
With pressure mounting, Henry bowled a pinpoint yorker on the fourth ball. Linde tried to come back for a second run but slipped mid-pitch, allowing just a single. Now, with four runs needed off two balls, Henry assessed the situation perfectly.
He bowled a length delivery outside off, just out of Linde’s hitting arc. The South African tried to muscle it down the ground but only managed to sky it to long-on, where Daryl Mitchell took a leaping catch to put New Zealand within touching distance of victory.
On the final delivery, Senuran Muthusamy needed to find a boundary, but Henry’s accuracy proved too good. The South African couldn’t connect, sealing a memorable win for New Zealand.
New Zealand’s Batting Sets the Foundation
Earlier in the day, New Zealand posted a solid total of 180/5 in their 20 overs, courtesy of top performances by two Chennai Super Kings (CSK) stars. Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra both scored 47, anchoring the innings beautifully. Tim Seifert chipped in with a valuable 30 at the top of the order.
This well-rounded batting performance laid the platform for what would become one of the most exciting finishes in recent T20 history.
