Amelia Kerr hits unbeaten 179 in record New Zealand ODI run chase
Amelia Kerr scored a stunning unbeaten 179 as New Zealand chased down a target of 346 against South Africa in Wellington to complete the highest successful run chase in women’s one-day international history.
The historic two-wicket victory levels the series after the hosts successfully reached 350-8 with just two deliveries remaining.
Arriving at the crease with her side struggling at 21-1, the reigning ICC Women’s Cricketer of the Year anchored the monumental pursuit.
The 24-year-old all-rounder smashed 23 fours and a solitary six during a masterful 139-ball innings.
South Africa set imposing target
Earlier in the day, the visitors had seemingly batted themselves into an unassailable position.
Captain Laura Wolvaardt set the foundation for the Proteas with a composed 69 from 74 balls.
Anneke Bosch accelerated the scoring with 91, before Chloe Tryon added late fireworks via a blistering 25-ball 52 to propel her team to 346-6.
Gaze support secures historic milestone
The previous highest successful chase in the women’s 50-over format occurred last October when India overhauled a 338-run target set by Australia in a World Cup semi-final.
To eclipse that record, the White Ferns required vital lower-order support alongside their talismanic batter.
Izzy Gaze provided exactly that, contributing a crucial 68 from 48 balls to keep the required run rate manageable.
This latest achievement adds to an already glittering resume for the Wellington native.
The prolific scorer previously inspired her nation to T20 World Cup glory against the same opposition in 2024.
She also continues to hold the overall record for the highest individual score in women’s ODI cricket following her monumental 232 not out against Ireland in 2018.
