The New Zealand Under-19 cricket team have been convincingly beaten by South Africa in the playoff for third and fourth in the ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup in Australia.
Played at Endeavour Park in Townsville, New Zealand was unable to recover from the loss of early wickets and posted just 90 runs in the first innings. South Africa completed the chase in the 15th over with eight wickets in hand.
Opener Quinton de Kock (50) got the South African’s chase off to a quick start, putting on 48 for the first wicket with captain Chad Bowes (12). Theo van Woerkom had Bowes caught by Joe Carter, before Ish Sodhi had de Kock trapped in front in the 13th over.
Diego Rosier (9*) and Theunis de Bruyn (19*) replaced the opening duo and hastily brought up the winning runs after 14.4overs.
Earlier New Zealand had won the toss and opted to bat, but struggled against the South African bowling attack.
Ben Horne (4) and Will Young (0) both went in the second over and the New Zealand side continued to lose wickets at regular intervals. Opener Joe Carter (2) and Connor Neynens (21*) put up some resistance, but were unable forge influential partnerships.
After 36.4 overs New Zealand were all out for 90.
South Africa’s David Rhoda was the chief wicket-taker, finishing with figures of four for 26 from 9.5 overs.
It was a disappointing way for the Kiwis to finish off the tournament, but a top four placing still should not be sneezed at.
The result sees South Africa finish third overall, while New Zealand will be forced to settle for fourth.
The final of the tournament will take place tomorrow between Australia and India.
