Jacques Rudolph and Nicky Boje fired up South Africa in polar conditions on Wednesday as the tourists posted 259 for seven in the fourth one-day international against New Zealand in Dunedin.
With temperatures barely into double figures, Rudolph scored an unbeaten 70 off 71 balls after missing the previous match through illness.
Promoted up the order when South Africa were in trouble at four for 100 in the 28th over, Rudolph fashioned a sound recovery with Boje, the pair putting on 85 runs in 86 balls before Boje was bowled by Scott Styris for 50.
Despite some accurate spells from Michael Mason and Jacob Oram who helped tie down South Africa early, they found late momentum with Rudolph, Boje and a brisk 36 off 28 balls from Mark Bouchere.
South Africa were sent in by New Zealand captain Stephen Fleming, who had lost the original toss on Tuesday before rain forced a 24-hour postponement.
New Zealand’s bowling didn’t suffer too much carnage, going for 74 off the last 10, with fielders diving in all directions in desperate run saving measures.
Oram ended with three for 51 off 10 overs while Mason conceded 30 off his last four to end with one for 46 off 10 in his first match on home soil.
New Zealand lead the six-match series 2-1. – Sapa-AFP