New Zealand v Zimbabwe 1997-1998

At Christchurch. March 4 (day/night). Zimbabwe won by one run. Toss: New Zealand.

A month away from one-day action benefited Zimbabwe, who had their first success in a significant match after nine weeks away from home which had contained nine consecutive defeats in Tests and internationals. They set a useful target of 229 on a slow pitch, with Goodwin and Guy Whittall leading the way. New Zealand still seemed to be heading for an easy win when Howell and Astle opened with 125 at five an over; Howell hit 12 fours and a six in his 71-ball 68. Then the slow bowlers Viljoen and Strang accounted for them both and frustrated the other batsmen. From 168 for six, Harris and Parore launched a recovery. But when Harris was out, the last pair had to get ten from one over. Four were needed off the last ball; Vettori managed two into the covers.

Man of the Match: M. W. Goodwin.