Devine batting blitz sees NZ down Proteas Women in 4th T20I

A batting blitz by Sophie Devine helped New Zealand to an emphatic 8-wicket win over the Proteas Women in the 4th T20I played in Benoni.

The win gives New Zealand a 1-0 lead with one match to play after the first three matches were rained out.

After losing the toss and being asked to bat, the Proteas managed a respectable 172/4 after 20 overs.

Skipper Laura Wolvaardt contributed 53 (44 balls), while Sune Luus contributed 45 off 30 and Chloe Tryon 22* off just 10 balls.

While New Zealand were initially well behind the run rate, Devine smashed 61* off just 37 balls, and Amelia Kerr 70* off 46 saw the visitors home with 7 balls to spare.

The final match takes place on Sunday, with the Proteas now only able to draw the series 1-1 should they win.

The home side did win the ODI series 2-1, however.