New Zealand's batsmen again failed get enough runs on the board first time up, despite a an impressive and defiant 150 out of 298, from the Kiwi's rising star Matthew Sinclair. His one man war, lasting six and a half hours was the only time they were ever really in control.

298 was never quite enough with the Kiwi's less than challenging bowling, although they show promise, between them they have only two dozen appearances, and most of those are by Shayne O'Connor, who impressed at the 1999 World Cup.

Neil McKenzie's first Test hundred came at a pivotal moment in the match. At 209-7 the Kiwi's had a first innings lead in mind. But McKenzie had other ideas as his 136 run partnership with Nicky Boje took the game away from New Zealand.

Then at 64-3 New Zealand had knocked off the deficit, and had a hope of setting a reasonable total this time around. But captain Fleming's worst nightmare followed, "It was a disastrous session that cost us the match." He said later.

Seven wickets tumbled for 84, only opener Mark Richardson showing any adhesive qualities with 60 in 150 balls. A final burst of 3-8 in just over 9 overs from Lance Klusener sealed New Zealand's fate. Requiring 89, there were fewer hiccups than in Bloemfontein as Neil McKenzie fittingly walloped a straight six to win the match and the series.