NZ thrashed Proteas by 281 runs in the first Test

Late on the fourth day of the first Test on Wednesday, New Zealand took their time but easily defeated an inexperienced South Africa team by 281 runs, securing a 1-0 lead in the two-match series. Just before play at Mount Maunganui's Bay Oval began, the Black Caps declared their second innings at 179 for four, setting the Proteas an intimidating 529 to win. Within the opening twenty minutes, the home seamers easily removed openers Neil Brand and Edward Moore, but their momentum was halted when Zubayr Hamza, together with Raynard van Tonder, shared a third-wicket partnership of 63.

After lunch, Kyle Jamieson (4-58) came out swinging and quickly removed both, but David Bedingham later proved to be an even bigger obstacle smashing a brilliantly aggressive 87. After South Africa passed the 200-mark, Santner (3-59) took action and dismissed the visitors for 247 by taking out Duanne Olivier, Tshepo Moreki, and Dane Paterson.