Tim Robinson’s Heroics Lead New Zealand to 21-Run Victory Over South Africa in Zimbabwe T20I Tri-Series

In a pulsating contest between two modern cricketing giants, New Zealand clinched a well-deserved 21-run win over South Africa in the second match of the Zimbabwe T20I Tri-Series, held at Harare Sports Club. The victory not only gave the Black Caps a strong start in the tournament but also marked a successful beginning to the Rob Walter era as New Zealand’s new head coach.

The highlight of the match was a sensational unbeaten 103-run partnership between Tim Robinson and debutant Bevon Jacobs, which helped New Zealand recover from a shaky start and post a competitive total. The bowlers, led by Jacob Duffy and Matt Henry, backed the effort with a clinical performance, bowling out South Africa for 152 and sealing the match in New Zealand’s favor.

New Zealand’s innings got off to a cautious start before they suffered a mid-innings collapse, finding themselves at 74/5 in the 12th over. With pressure mounting, Tim Robinson stood tall at one end, crafting a calm yet commanding innings. He remained unbeaten on 75 off 57 deliveries, striking six boundaries and three sixes.

Joining him was debutant Bevon Jacobs, who made a memorable first appearance for the Black Caps. The 20-year-old showed remarkable maturity under pressure, scoring an unbeaten 44 off 33 balls. The pair put on 103 runs together for the sixth wicket, taking New Zealand to 173/5 at the end of their 20 overs—a total that seemed just above par on a slow Harare wicket.

Duffy and Henry Break South Africa’s Backbone

Chasing 174, South Africa needed a solid start. However, New Zealand’s bowlers had other plans. Jacob Duffy was the star with the ball, claiming 3 wickets for just 20 runs in his 4-over spell. He was well supported by Matt Henry, who also picked up 3 wickets for 34 runs.

The Proteas lost wickets at regular intervals, unable to form a stable partnership. Dewald Brevis tried to anchor the chase with a fighting 35, while George Linde chipped in with 30, but the lack of support from other batters proved costly. South Africa were eventually bowled out for 152 in 18.2 overs.

Final Scorecard:

New Zealand: 173/5 (20 overs)

Tim Robinson – 75* (57)

Bevon Jacobs – 44* (33)

South Africa: 152 all out (18.2 overs)

Dewald Brevis – 35 (26)

George Linde – 30 (18)

Jacob Duffy – 3/20

Matt Henry – 3/34

Result: New Zealand won by 21 runs
Player of the Match: Tim Robinson