Kiwi Bowler Breaks Decade-Old New Zealand Record in Hamilton

New Zealand vs South Africa: Match Scorecard

Fast bowler Will O’Rourke shattered a decade-old New Zealand record during the second Test against South Africa in Hamilton, leaving the match evenly poised after three captivating days of play.

O’Rourke claimed five wickets in the Proteas’ second innings, securing match figures of 9/93. This feat surpassed the previous record held by Mark Craig (8/188) from June 2014 for the best bowling figures by a New Zealand player on Test debut.

Top Match Figures on Test Debut by a New Zealand Bowler

O’Rourke’s decisive wickets came late in South Africa’s second innings on a roller-coaster day at Seddon Park. David Bedingham’s century seemed to be steering the game away from New Zealand until a sudden collapse of 6/33 swung the momentum back in favour of the hosts.

O’Rourke dismissed Bedingham for an impressive 110 during the collapse, with South Africa bowled out for 235 in their second innings. New Zealand now needs 267 runs to secure victory.

Will O’Rourke’s five-wicket haul has left South Africa all out at Seddon Park. O’Rourke now holds the record for the best match bowling figures on Test debut for New Zealand with 9-93. The target for victory is set at 267. Follow the live play on TVNZ DUKE and TVNZ+ #NZvSA.

The victory total could have been significantly higher if not for O’Rourke’s timely intervention. Bedingham and Keegan Petersen (43) seemed in control at 102/4 after a 98-run stand that put the Proteas in a commanding position.

However, O’Rourke’s late wickets and a useful spell from all-rounder Glenn Phillips (2/50) have given New Zealand the upper hand as they head into the fourth day of play on Friday.