World Cup 2019: 3 reasons why New Zealand defeated South Africa

#1 Williamson’s calmness in the face of pressure

New Zealand v South Africa - ICC Cricket World Cup 2019

Kane Williamson scored a century under a lot of pressure, and his knock was ultimately the difference between the two sides. The captain converted his start into a big score, which the South African batsmen failed to do.

Williamson came in with the score on 12-1. He combined with Martin Guptill (35 runs) for a 61-run partnership, but both batsmen struggled for timing on the slow pitch. South Africa bowled with superb discipline to keep the run-rate in check.

Guptill was growing frustrated with the slow run-rate. He then slipped while playing a pull shot and trod on his own wickets.

Ross Taylor (1) and Tom Latham (1) lost their wickets soon after and South Africa were right back in the match. The score was now 79-4 after 18.1 overs.

In the middle of this excitement, Williamson remained as calm as ever. He was involved in significant partnerships with Jimmy Neesham (23) and Colin de Grandhomme to put New Zealand in a dominant position.

South Africa tried every tactic they could think of against Williamson. Every one of them failed. The impervious Williamson was still there at the end of the match, which his team won.