‘What a victory’ – Fans react as New Zealand beat South Africa by 281 runs in 1st Test match

The New Zealand cricket team won the first Test match by 281 runs against South Africa at Bay Oval on February 7. Notably, the hosts are 1-0 in the two matches of the Test series, and they will be looking to outclass the visiting side to whitewash the series. Speaking about the game here, it was the South African skipper who won the toss and invited the hosts to bat first in the game.

Notably, after being sent to bat first, the Kiwis posted 511 runs in the first inning. Star batter Kane Williamson hammered 118 runs from 289 balls, featuring 16 boundaries, whereas Rachin Ravindra made 240 runs from 366 balls, including 26 fours and three sixes, to help his side post the great total. However, during the chase, the Proteas could only manage to get 162 runs before getting all out.

Meanwhile, New Zealand declared their second inning with 179 runs. Star batter Kane Williamson again went on to hammer in the century in the second inning. Notably, the stylish right-handed batter made 109 runs from 132 balls, featuring 12 boundaries and one six to help him put in the dominant position. However, South Africa were bundled out for just 247 runs in the second inning.

Lot of focus will shift back to the next Test: Tim Southee

Meanwhile, New Zealand skipper Tim Southee expressed his happiness after his side won the Test match by a massive margin. The 35-year-old cricketer was extremely pleased after his side picked up 20 wickets that helped his side win the Test by a big margin. Moreover, the right-arm pacer is looking forward to the next Test match and aiming to clean sweep the series.

“On a good surface, the batters set it up and the bowlers picked up 20 wickets. Very pleasing. We had great preparation. They compete. They are a proud nation. When you come to the Mount, it does offer that little bit more later in the Test. Pleasing to see Mitch Santner coming back into the team. We got better as the Test went on. As a group we were a bit better in the second innings. We would enjoy this one. Lot of focus will shift back to the next Test,” Tim Southee said after the win.

Check here the fans’ reaction after the win: