South Africa’s newly appointed Test skipper, Neil Brand, expressed dismay following New Zealand’s massive 281-run victory in the first NZ vs SA Test in Mount Maunganui, backed by Kyle Jamieson’s four-wicket haul and Mitchell Santner’s three-for. This win marked New Zealand’s second-largest victory margin in terms of runs. Despite Brand’s impressive bowling figures 6/119 in the initial innings, New Zealand amassed a daunting total of 511 runs.
Brand lamented the loss, stating, “It’s very deflating. We gave them chances and who knows what would have been. Our patience was tested on this wicket, the guys got in and got themselves out. Back to the drawing board now and hopefully we can do better in the next Test.”
David Bedingham’s spirited knock of 87 off 96 balls offered some resistance, but South Africa succumbed for 247 runs in 80 overs while chasing a daunting target of 529 for victory.
Brand expressed frustration at losing wickets after breaks, saying, “It’s obviously disappointing to lose wickets after breaks. We’re raring to get back for the second Test. Six wickets was a massive honour for me but my currency is runs, so disappointed to not contribute there..”
Despite good partnerships, South Africa lost wickets in clusters,with players like Zubayr Hamza, Raynard van Tonder, and Keegan Petersen unable to convert their starts into substantial scores. Brand’s dismissal came from a well-executed delivery by Tim Southee, leaving his stumps shattered.
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