"Only Ticked One Box" – Ashwell Prince Slams Lack of Partnerships as South Africa Slump to New Zealand Defeat

South Africa’s batting coach Ashwell Prince said his side failed to capitalise on key scoring opportunities after their defeat to New Zealand national cricket team in the second T20I, pointing to the lack of substantial innings and partnerships during the chase.

South Africa was set a target of 176 but slipped early and struggled to build momentum. Their only late resistance came from all-rounder George Linde, who struck a quick 33 from 12 balls at No.7, including three fours and three sixes. By the time he arrived, however, South Africa were already five wickets down and chasing the game.

Prince explained that successful T20 batting often depends on three types of contributions, but said his side managed only one of them. “Generally in a T20 game you get three opportunities: you can either play the match-winning innings, which unfortunately for us it was Devon [Conway] today for them, or you can be in a match-winning partnership with someone, or you can play a really nice cameo towards the end,” Prince said at the post-match press conference.

“Today the only box we ticked was George Linde, who played a really nice cameo towards the end, but we didn't get any partnerships going, and we didn't get anyone going on and making a big score.”

Conway Sets Up New Zealand Win

New Zealand’s innings was anchored by opener Devon Conway, whose 60 was the highest score of the match. His effort came alongside useful partnerships and late acceleration that pushed the total beyond 170.

Lower-order contributions also played a role, with Cole McConchie scoring 18 off 12 balls and Josh Clarkson adding a quick 26 from nine deliveries. Their cameos ensured New Zealand maintained momentum on a surface that gradually became harder to score on.

Prince noted that Conway’s innings stood out not only for the runs but also for the way it was constructed. “Devon played great innings, but also at a strike rate of I think about 125, which meant it was a hard-working surface,” he said.

Injury Setback & Squad Adjustments

South Africa’s preparations were also affected by an injury to opening batter Jordan Hermann, who sustained a hamstring problem earlier in the series and has returned home. His brother Rubin Hermann remains part of the squad.

With limited batting options available, the team has moved all-rounder Wiaan Mulder up the order. The series between South Africa and New Zealand is currently level at 1-1, with the decider scheduled for Friday.