Ton-up Amla stars as South Africa beat New Zealand in first ODI

South African batsman Hashim Amla raises his bat and helmet as he celebrates scoring a century (100 runs) during the first One Day International match between South Africa and New Zealand in Centurion

Johannesburg: South Africa vice-captain Hashim Amla scored a rejuvenated century to help his side clinch a 20-run victory over New Zealand in the first ODI here at SuperSport Park in Centurion.


South African batsman Hashim Amla raises his bat and helmet as he celebrates scoring a century (100 runs) during the first One Day International match between South Africa and New Zealand in Centurion. Pic/AFP

Amla (124), who scored his 21st ODI century, shared a gritty 185-run stand with Rilee Rossouw for the second wicket and helped his side set up a huge total of 304-7, Sport24 reported.

The visitors were nevertheless in with a chance of winning all through their chase until they lost two wickets in an over of South African quickie Vernon Philander.

For the Black caps, Tom Latham (60) and Kane Williamson (47) gave them the platform they needed but apart from sixth wicket stand of 71 runs between Jimmy Neesham and Colin Munro, they were unable to build on that effort.

For the hosts, leg spinner Imran Tahir bowled economically and returned with the figures of 2-40, which was best of all the South African bowlers.

Amla was adjudged man of the match for his superb century.

The two teams will now lock horns in the second ODI on Sunday at Senwes Park in Potchefstroom.