Cricket: South African take first blood in series

BENONI - Half-centuries from Nicky Boje (64) and Gary Kirsten (57), who combined for a second-wicket partnership of 111, saw South Africa home to a comfortable six-wicket victory over New Zealand in the second one-day international.

The home side adapted better to a slow pitch which showed inconsistent bounce to reach their victory target of 195 with 3.2 overs to spare and take a 1-0 series lead after the first match in Potchefstroom on Friday was abandoned due to rain.

Tight bowling from the South African attack set the foundation for victory with the visitors restricted to 194 for 8 off their 50 overs.

Nathan Astle top-scored for the Black Caps with 58, while Chris Cairns made 26.

The Proteas medium- pacer Roger Telemachus (1 for 16) was particularly miserly with the Kiwi batsmen finding it difficult to contend with the ball angled across them.

South Africa started their run-chase briskly, scoring 20 off the first five overs as Boje, again sent in at first drop after his unbeaten century on Friday, took to the bowling with relish.

Both he and Kirsten brought up their half-century stand off just 62 balls and when they departed Jacques Kallis, with an unbeaten 39, helped put matters beyond doubt.

New Zealand 194-8 South Africa 197-4

Result: SA win by six wickets

- INDEPENDENT