South Africa versus New Zealand Test Series, 2024

Bedingham’s century and O’Rourke’s five-wicket haul set the stage for a captivating finale in Hamilton

A day of remarkable milestones set the stage for a gripping finale to the Hamilton Test between New Zealand and South Africa.

Determined to maintain their impeccable record of never having lost a Test series against their hosts, South Africa discovered a new batting sensation in David Bedingham, who notched up his inaugural Test century.

His resilient knock of 110 provided the visitors with a substantial lead, but debutant William O’Rourke’s five-wicket haul halted their momentum, ensuring a tantalizingly balanced match.

As New Zealand commenced the day, trailing by 31 runs, South Africa maintained the upper hand, especially with the pitch favoring significant turn.

However, the day didn’t begin favorably for them.

Although their openers, Clyde Fortuin and Neil Brand, navigated the initial overs unscathed, Fortuin’s innings ended with an unfortunate dismissal, attempting a paddle sweep only to be trapped lbw by Rachin Ravindra.

O’Rourke, seizing the opportunity, struck swiftly, claiming the wicket of Raynard van Tonder in his second over.

Neil Brand showcased resilience, scoring boundaries off O’Rourke but fell victim to the bowler’s skill, edging one to the wicketkeeper.

Despite Brand’s contribution of 34 runs out of South Africa’s first 39, much work lay ahead with the arrival of the new batsman, Bedingham.

Bedingham exhibited aggression, swiftly accumulating 34 runs from his first 36 deliveries before Lunch, unsettling the New Zealand bowlers.

His momentum continued post-lunch, punctuated by boundaries off Tim Southee and O’Rourke.

However, Hamza’s dismissal broke the burgeoning partnership, courtesy of Neil Wagner’s well-directed short ball.

South Africa persisted with short-pitched deliveries, but Bedingham remained unfazed, dominating the bowling attack.

Despite occasional resistance from the Kiwi bowlers, particularly from Phillips and Southee, Bedingham and Peterson orchestrated a formidable 98-run stand, pushing South Africa’s lead toward 250.

However, a moment of brilliance in the field by Phillips, who grasped a spectacular catch at gully to dismiss Peterson, triggered a remarkable collapse.

Bedingham’s maiden century, achieved off 127 balls, offered brief respite before he succumbed to O’Rourke’s guile.

O’Rourke, returning for his second spell, wreaked havoc, claiming two more wickets to complete his five-wicket haul.

From a position of dominance, South Africa inexplicably lost 6 wickets for 33 runs, setting the stage for a thrilling conclusion to the match.