Pacer Matt Henry recorded match figures of 9/55 to lead New Zealand’s win over South Africa in the first test at Hagley Oval in Christchurch. The hosts defeated Dean Elgar and co by an innings and 276 runs.
The win was New Zealand’s first over South Africa in 18 years.
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Henry was named the player of the match for his 7-23 in South Africa’s first innings and his 58, batting at No. 11. He took 2-32 in the second innings.
Interestingly, Henry got a spot in the playing 11 only after regular Kiwi pacer Trent Boult took a paternity leave.
“It was pretty to come here and for us all to have a performance like that. It’s been brilliant. It is pretty special to get man of the match here on such a great occasion and in a great win like that,” Henry said.
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Kiwi captain Tim Southee took 5-35 as his side managed to bowl out South Africa for 111 in its second innings after only 32 overs on the third day. The Proteas had started the day at 34-3, trailing New Zealand by 353 runs after making only 95 in its first innings.
In their first innings, New Zealand had scored 482 with Henry Nicholls making 105 and Tom Blundell 96.
The win also improved New Zealand’s standing in the World Test Championship as it defends the inaugural title. It came into the match in sixth place after its shared series with Bangladesh last month.
The second test begins at Hagley Oval next Friday.
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“We were pretty much out-skilled in all three departments of test cricket,” South Africa captain Dean Elgar said.
South Africa came into the test after a series win India.
“We failed to execute the basics, I’d say,” Elgar added. “Not a very good show for us considering what we built up prior to coming to New Zealand playing this test series so extremely disappointing.”
With inputs from the Associated Press
