New Zealand v South Africa

At Brisbane, January 19 (day/night). New Zealand won by four wickets. New Zealand 4 pts. Toss: South Africa.

Chasing 242, New Zealand were becalmed at 98 for five in the 24th over after Pollock had taken two for seven in his opening six-over spell. But a fearless century from Cairns changed the game, gave his team their first one-day victory over South Africa for nearly three years and put them top of the table. Cairns began patiently, taking 64 balls over his first 50, but ended brutally - the next 50 came in just 35, as he accelerated through the last ten overs. He belted nine fours and three huge sixes, while Harris and Parore gave staunch support. South Africa paid the price for a big stumble at the end of their innings. They lost six for 37 in the last nine overs as Bond and Cairns bowled cleverly to stop the momentum.

Man of the Match: C. L. Cairns.