Ferguson on Sears: 'He has still got more pace in him' New Zealand's cricket team has shown resilience in bouncing back from a challenging start to the series, with Lockie Ferguson crediting the team's ability to adapt quickly to different playing conditions. After being bowled out for 91 in Mount Maunganui, the Black Caps posted a competitive 175 for 6 on a difficult Hamilton pitch, ultimately securing a 68-run victory over South Africa. Ferguson highlighted the importance of adjusting to unpredictable conditions, noting that while it's not always easy, the team's ability to find a good total on challenging wickets was crucial. He praised Devon Conway's contribution with a gritty 60, emphasizing that the team's focus on adapting to the environment helped them achieve a strong total despite the challenging conditions. Ferguson also reflected on his personal journey, mentioning that his return to home cricket was a welcome change after a period of absence due to injury. He expressed excitement about playing in New Zealand, where he feels most comfortable, and highlighted the support from the home crowd as a key factor in the team's performance. The match against South Africa provided an opportunity for him to watch teammate Ben Sears excel, with Sears taking three wickets to match Ferguson's contribution. Ferguson praised Sears' continued development, noting his dedication to training and improving his skills, which he believes will benefit Sears' long-term career. He also expressed confidence in Sears' ability to maintain pace and effectiveness, especially as the series progresses. Looking ahead to the third T20I at Eden Park, Ferguson acknowledged the unique challenges of the venue, including its short boundaries and the intense atmosphere created by the passionate crowd.#lockie_ferguson #new_zealand #devon_conway #ben_sears #eden_park
Ferguson credits adaptability for Hamilton comeback Lockie Ferguson reflected on New Zealand’s rapid recovery from a heavy defeat to a commanding victory in the second T20I against South Africa, emphasizing the team’s ability to adapt to challenging conditions. After being bowled out for 91 in Mount Maunganui, New Zealand turned the tide with a resilient 175 for 6 on a difficult Hamilton pitch, securing a 68-run win. Ferguson highlighted adaptability as the key to their resurgence, noting how the team recalibrated their approach when expected conditions didn’t align with their plans. “The main thing is adapting to the conditions,” Ferguson said. “It’s not always easy, but when a wicket we thought would be good doesn’t play as well as expected, we have to figure out what a strong total on that surface looks like. In Hamilton, we adapted quickly. I thought 175 was a great total, even if Devon Conway wasn’t as fluid as usual. He still got the runs we needed, and that’s what matters.” The match also marked Ferguson’s return to international cricket after a brief hiatus during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign to support his newborn child. He expressed enthusiasm for playing at home, citing the familiarity of New Zealand conditions and the energy of the home crowd. “I really miss playing in New Zealand. The start of the summer was tough with an injury, but I was looking forward to a lot of T20 cricket at home. The conditions and the support from the fans are second to none,” he said. Ferguson praised the team’s collective effort, particularly the pace attack, which made his role easier. “The bowling group were outstanding. They put pressure on both ends, which made my job simpler. Watching Ben Sears step up was a highlight.#lockie_ferguson #new_zealand #south_africa #devon_conway #ben_sears
New Zealand vs South Africa 2nd T20I Highlights: Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson Propel NZ To 68-Run Win Over South Africa New Zealand secured a dominant 68-run victory over South Africa in the second T20I of the five-match series on Tuesday at Seddon Park in Hamilton. The Blackcaps posted 175-6 after electing to bat, capitalizing on a challenging pitch that became increasingly difficult as the evening progressed. South Africa collapsed to 107 all out in 15.3 overs, with New Zealand’s pacers Ben Sears and Lockie Ferguson playing pivotal roles by claiming six wickets. The Proteas’ batting lineup struggled with timing on a surface offering variable pace and bounce, as all 10 wickets fell to catches. The win leveled the series at 1-1, setting the stage for the final match in Auckland. Devon Conway was the standout performer for New Zealand, scoring an unbeaten 60 off 49 balls. His innings provided stability and momentum, anchoring the innings with composed shots while also contributing crucial runs. Conway emphasized his focus on partnerships and adapting to South Africa’s bowling strategies, including dealing with Gerald Coetzee’s new-ball variations. Lockie Ferguson also played a key role, finishing with figures of 3-19, including the final wicket of George Linde. His ability to vary pace and line proved critical in dismantling South Africa’s lower order. South Africa’s batting woes were evident from the outset, as they lost their top order early and failed to build a competitive total. The Proteas’ innings was marked by inconsistency, with key wickets falling to New Zealand’s bowlers. Despite a brief fightback by Linde, who scored 33, South Africa could not recover from a shaky start.#lockie_ferguson #new_zealand #south_africa #devon_conway #ben_sears
