Dion Conway hit a half-century before a clinical bowling display helped New Zealand beat South Africa by 68 runs in the second T20I at Seddon Park, Hamilton, on Tuesday to level the five-match series 1-1.Sent in to bat, New Zealand posted a competitive score of 175/6, anchored by Conway’s 60 off 49 balls. The left-hander, who had a quiet T20 World Cup campaign, made the most of his opportunity to hit five fours and two sixes. “It’s been a very quiet few months … it’s nice to come back and contribute,” Conway said after the match.Scorecard: New Zealand v South Africa, 2nd T20INew Zealand got off to a flying start, reaching 43 for no loss in the powerplay, with Conway and Tom Latham setting the tone. However, the hosts faced a rush in the middle overs as the pitch slowed down and became a two-pace. Collaborations with Nick Kelly (21) and Mitchell Santner (20) kept the scoreboard ticking, before a late flourish from Josh Clarkson, who scored 26 off just nine balls, lifted the total.South Africa are struggling in the chase.In reply, the entire South African team was bowled out for just 107 runs in 15.3 overs. The chase began at 31/3, and despite a brief reply from George Linde, who top-scored with a quickfire 33, the visitors collapsed under constant pressure.Pace duo Ben Sears (3/14) and Lockie Ferguson (3/16) were outstanding, taking advantage of the variable bounce and pace on offer. All 10 of South Africa’s wickets fell to catches, underscoring the effectiveness of New Zealand’s disciplined bowling.South Africa captain Keshav Maharaj Admitted to his misreading of the terms. “We thought the dew would play a factor, but the wicket was damaged. New Zealand bowled really well and pressed us early,” he said.The result comes after South Africa’s seven-wicket win in the first match of the series and sets up the competition well. With both sides fielding relatively inexperienced squads after the T20 World Cup, the series has provided opportunities for emerging players to step up.The third T20I will be played in Auckland on Friday.
