Black Caps implode in T20 loss

AUCKLAND, Feb 22: New Zealand imploded in the closing overs of the third and final Twenty20 cricket international, crumbling under an unlikely South African comeback to a three-run loss at Eden Park yesterday.

Stung by an eight-wicket loss in Sunday’s second Twenty20, the Black Caps looked to be cruising in chasing South Africa’s modest 7-165. But they lost too many wickets in the closing overs, the runs drying up in the face of some astute bowling at the death from Marchant de Lange, Johan Botha and Morne Morkel.

Recalled big-hitter Jesse Ryder hadn’t played since late last year after injuring his calf, but looked to have set New Zealand up for the win with a 42-ball 52 which included five fours and two sixes.

But the runs dried up horribly, with just 13 coming off the last four overs, and when the burly left-hander looped a catch to Morkel off Botha with seven balls remaining, the pressure proved too much for New Zealand.

Disappointed Black Caps captain Brendon McCullum paid tribute to the focused South African bowling attack.

“South Africa put us under pressure and to their credit, they held their nerve. We just weren’t good enough at the end there,” he said.

Rob Nicol and Martin Guptill crafted an explosive opening partnership, scoring at more than 10 an over in piling on 65 for the first wicket.