The T20I tri-series in Zimbabwe is heating up, and the next high-voltage clash sees South Africa take on New Zealand at the Harare Sports Club on Wednesday, July 16, at 4:30 PM IST. South Africa come into this contest with momentum on their side, having edged past the hosts in a thrilling opener.
Despite a shaky top order, the Proteas showcased their depth and familiarity with local conditions. New Zealand have fielded a near full-strength squad and are determined to make a strong statement.
Fans can expect a blockbuster encounter filled with drama, big hits, and high stakes with both teams loaded with power-packed lineups and global T20 stars.
Head-to-head record: South Africa vs. New Zealand in T20I
South Africa and New Zealand have faced off 15 times in T20 internationals, with the Proteas holding a dominant edge in the rivalry. South Africa have won 11 of those encounters, while New Zealand have managed just 4 victories.
Their first meeting came on October 21, 2005, and their most recent clash was on February 17, 2017.
- Matches Played: 15
- Won by South Africa: 11
- Won by New Zealand: 04
- Tied: 0
Top players to watch: Batters & Bowlers
As South Africa and New Zealand gear up for a key clash in the tri-series, several players stand out as game-changers for their respective sides.
Top Batters
- Dewald Brevis (SA): He was the star of South Africa’s win over Zimbabwe, smashing a blistering 41 off just 17 balls. His aggressive strokeplay and fearless intent make him a must-watch in this encounter.
- Tim Seifert (NZ): Tim Seifert brings experience and consistency to the top order for New Zealand. With 1,540 runs from 63 T20Is, including a high score of 97*, he will be key to anchoring the innings and setting the tone.
Top Bowlers
- George Linde (SA): He impressed in the last game with his all-round performance, claiming 3 crucial wickets to put pressure on the opposition. His control and ability to strike in the middle overs make him a vital asset for South Africa.
- Jacob Duffy (NZ): Jacob Duffy offers pace and wicket-taking ability, having picked up 32 wickets in 22 T20Is. His knack for breakthroughs makes him a player to keep an eye on.
SA vs. NZ betting odds & predictions: Who has the edge?
According to the latest odds by Dafabet, both South Africa and New Zealand are evenly matched at 1.90 each, highlighting just how closely contested this T20I is expected to be.
South Africa might have the slight advantage due to their recent game time in Zimbabwe and familiarity with the conditions, but New Zealand’s balanced squad and depth in both departments make them strong contenders.
Odds | |
South Africa | 1.90 |
New Zealand | 1.90 |
Get 150% deposit match up to ₹150,000 when you sign up for a new account with Dafabet. Click here to claim
South Africa vs. New Zealand: Expected playing XIs and Team News
South Africa Team News
South Africa started their tri-series campaign with a confident five-wicket win over Zimbabwe. The Proteas have opted to rest several senior players for this series, giving opportunities to emerging talents.
Lhuan-dre Pretorius made his T20I debut but was dismissed for a golden duck. Despite that, he is likely to open again alongside the experienced Reeza Hendricks. Rubin Hermann, another debutant, impressed with a composed 45 and will continue in the middle order alongside Rassie van der Dussen and Dewald Brevis, who played a match-winning cameo.
On the bowling front, South Africa are expected to stick with their strong pace unit comprising Lungi Ngidi, Corbin Bosch, Nandre Burger, and Andile Simelane. Left-arm spinner George Linde, who took 3 for 10 in the opener, will lead the spin attack. The Proteas will need a complete performance to challenge a stronger New Zealand side.
South Africa Expected Playing 11: Lhuan-dre Pretorius (WK), Reeza Hendricks, Rassie van der Dussen (C), Dewald Brevis, Rubin Hermann, Corbin Bosch, Andile Simelane, Nqabayomzi Peter, Nandre Burger, Lungi Ngidi, George Linde
New Zealand Team News
New Zealand enter the tri-series without several key players, including Kane Williamson, Lockie Ferguson, Ben Sears, and Finn Allen, who is out due to injury. This opens the door for fresh faces as the Black Caps look to strengthen their bench ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup.
Devon Conway returns to the squad and is set to open the innings in Allen’s absence, while Tim Seifert is expected to keep wickets. Captain Mitchell Santner is back to lead the side after missing the Pakistan series in March.
The pace attack will likely feature Jacob Duffy, Matt Henry, and William O’Rourke, with Ish Sodhi handling spin duties. The availability of MLC finalists Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mark Chapman, and Michael Bracewell remains uncertain for this match.
New Zealand Expected Playing 11: Devon Conway, Matt Henry, Bevon Jacobs, Jacob Duffy, Mitchell Santner (C), Tim Seifert (WK), Daryl Mitchell, James Neesham, William O’Rourke, Ish Sodhi, Mitchell Hay
SA vs NZ live scorecard
To follow the action between South Africa vs. New Zealand live, you can make use of the live scorecard feature on Parimatch's website.
Navigate to the game of your choice and click the scorecard icon to follow along, and bet live with the action with a trusted site.
Where to watch South Africa vs. New Zealand 3rd T20I
- Venue: Harare Sports Club, Harare
- Date & Time (IST): July 16, 2025 (Wednesday), 4:30 PM
- Live Broadcast and Streaming Details: FanCode (app & website)
RELATED LINKS: