New Zealand clinched the ODI series against South Africa with a solid 66-run victory in the third ODI at the Basin Reserve in Wellington on Saturday (April 4). Maddy Green's century was crucial for New Zealand as they bounced back from a rocky start, finding themselves at just 3 for 3. Tumi Sekhukhune was the one who set the tone for South Africa, taking out both Suzie Bates and Amelia Kerr, while Georgia Plimmer was dismissed by Ayanda Hlubi. 

However, South Africa couldn't take full advantage of their early breakthroughs. New Zealand staged a remarkable recovery, thanks to a massive 211-run partnership between Green and Brooke Halliday. Green finished strong with an unbeaten 141, while Halliday narrowly missed her century, ending up with 98, leading New Zealand to a total of 306/7. 

In response, South Africa got off to a decent start, with their openers putting together a 68-run partnership. This was followed by a 77-run stand between captain Laura Wolvaardt and Annerie Dercksen, which kept the Proteas in the game. But when Wolvaardt was dismissed in the 26th over, it sparked a dramatic collapse, and South Africa went from 145/1 to 154/4. 

Despite attempts to regroup, South Africa's chase fell apart as wickets continued to tumble. Rosemary Mair was the standout bowler, claiming 5 wickets for 50 runs, and South Africa was eventually bowled out for 240. 

New Zealand secured the ODI series with a convincing 66-run win, bouncing back from an early setback. Maddy Green’s unbeaten century and her significant partnership with Brooke Halliday were game-changers. South Africa started strong in their chase but lost their rhythm after losing key wickets. Mair’s exceptional bowling ensured New Zealand maintained control and comfortably wrapped up the match.