NZ vs SA: It’s Been A Test Match That We’re Very Proud Of: Tom Latham On Thumping Win Against South Africa

New Zealand stand-in skipper Tom Latham pointed out that his side has managed to register a huge win against South Africa in the first Test in the absence of New Zealand’s key players.

New Zealand wrapped the first Test against the Proteas with a clinical victory of an innings and 276 runs at the Hagley Oval in Christchurch.

Matt Henry stars in New Zealand’ spectacular win against South Africa in the first Test

Canterbury pacer Matt Henry bowled a magnificent spell of 7/23 in the first innings as the visitors skittled out at 95. New Zealand took a monstrous lead of 387 runs which made it clear that South Africa had no chance of pulling the game back.

Henry scored an unbeaten 58 while batting at No.11 as Henry Nicholls (105) and wicketkeeper-batter Tom Blundell led the scoring charts for the Black Caps.

South Africa’s second innings folded up on 111 as Tim Southee (5/35) bagged his 14th five-wicket haul in his red-ball career on the international stage.

New Zealand were playing without the likes of regular skipper Kane Williamson, bowling spearhead Trent Boult and Ross Taylor, who declared his retirement after the Bangladesh Test series last month.

It’s a testament to the depth that we’re creating in New Zealand cricket: Tom Latham

Latham, who is leading the Black Caps in the absence of Williamson, said that the New Zealand cricket team is creating their bench strength and is proud of the team’s stellar performance in the first Test.

“Yeah, it’s obviously great for the side. It’s been documented a long time ago since we haven’t seen any of those three names (Williamson, Taylor and Boult) who are such a vital part of the side.

“I guess its testament to the depth that we’re creating in New Zealand cricket… that guys who haven’t played a lot can step up and come up and perform straight away,” Latham was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.

“Obviously, (it’s) great for us all to be together… it’s certainly a great way (to break the record). So yeah, it’s been a Test match that we’re very proud of and one we’ll celebrate tonight,” he added.

New Zealand will play the second Test against South Africa on the same venue, the match commences on February 25.

Also Read: ICC World Test Championship Updated Points Table After New Zealand vs South Africa 1st Test