By BV Swagath
South Africa held onto a 9-run victory over New Zealand in a high scoring contest at the Colts Cricket Club Ground in Colombo.
Asked to bat first after losing the toss, the Proteas piled up 186 for 6 in 20 overs thanks to Skipper AB de Villiers’ knock of 54 from 30 balls (with 5x4, 2x6). For the Kiwis, fast bowler Adam Milne impressed with figures of 4-0-26-2 while offie Nathan McCullum, who opened the bowling came up with 4-0-29-0.
New Zealand in reply put SA under pressure courtesy of a blistering innings of 75 (from 42 balls with 2 fours and 7 sixes) from Skipper Ross Taylor. Rob Nicol, batting in the middle order put up a strong partnership with Taylor in his knock of 37 (from 36 balls).
South Africa went onto win the match once Lonwabo Tsotsobe got the prized wicket of Ross Taylor in the 16th over with the Kiwis at 143 for 4. Dale Steyn was the hero for the Proteas taking 4 for 25 in 4 overs.