Amelia Kerr sets T20I record as New Zealand seal Series against South Africa

Amelia Kerr delivered another standout performance to guide New Zealand women's cricket team to a series-clinching victory over South Africa women's cricket team, while also setting a new world record in women’s T20 Internationals.

Kerr scored 31 off 29 balls after taking 1-32 with the ball in Wellington, helping New Zealand chase down 160 with six wickets and nine balls to spare. The win gave the hosts an unassailable 3-1 lead in the series.

The highlight of the match was Kerr’s consistency—she has now scored 30 or more runs in 10 consecutive T20I innings, breaking the previous record of nine held by Chamari Athapaththu and Rebecca Blake.

Across these 10 innings, Kerr has amassed 554 runs at an impressive strike rate of 142, along with 12 wickets at an economy rate of 6.74, underlining her all-round dominance.

Captain Sophie Devine played a decisive role in the chase, scoring a powerful 64 off 34 balls. Her innings included multiple sixes and boundaries, effectively taking control of the game and sealing victory. This was also her 150th T20I appearance, marking the milestone with a match-winning performance.

Earlier, South Africa posted 159 for 6, thanks largely to an unbeaten 55 off 32 balls by Annerie Dercksen, who anchored the innings and accelerated in the final overs.

New Zealand’s bowling effort was led by Jess Kerr, who claimed 3 wickets for 16 runs, helping restrict the visitors after a steady start.

The match also featured strong contributions from Georgia Plimmer, who shared a crucial partnership with Amelia Kerr, setting the platform for the successful chase.

With this victory, New Zealand not only secured the series but also showcased depth in both batting and bowling, while Amelia Kerr’s record-breaking form remains the standout storyline.