New Zealand Vs South Africa LIVE Cricket Score, 5th T20I: Esterhuizen And Hermann Eye Strong Finish | SA 92/2 (12.1)

Wiaan Mulder had to depart after playing out a decent knock of 31 off 29 but South Africa won't have many reasons to worry as Connor Esterhuizen is at the crease on 12 off just 8.

Decent recovery made from the South Africans to end the powerplay as Wiaan Mulder and Rubin Hermann get into the act. Hermann, in particular, is looking in a good touch, scoring 25 off 16 so far.

Zakary Foulkes gets the important wicket of Tony de Zorzi who departs for just 12 runs off 14 and South Africa are immediately under pressure. Not the ideal start for the Proteas in the powerplay. Rubin Hermann is the new man in.

We are underway at this beautiful stadium for the series decider. Tony de Zorzy and Wiaan Mulder will have a lot on their shoulders as they will try to negotiate the new ball and score as many runs as possible in the powerplay.

South Africa XI: Wiaan Mulder, Tony de Zorzi, Connor Esterhuizen(w), Rubin Hermann, Jason Smith, Dian Forrester, George Linde, Gerald Coetzee, Keshav Maharaj(c), Prenelan Subrayen, Ottneil Baartman

New Zealand XI: Tim Robinson, Katene Clarke, Dane Cleaver(w), Nick Kelly, Bevon Jacobs, James Neesham(c), Josh Clarkson, Cole McConchie, Zakary Foulkes, Kyle Jamieson, Ben Sears

New Zealand won the toss and elected to bowl first.

The series is locked at 2-2 after a back-and-forth battle. South Africa dominated the opener, skittling New Zealand for 91, but the Black Caps stormed back with consecutive wins to lead 2-1. In the fourth T20I, the Proteas defended 164 thanks to Connor Esterhuizen’s 57 and clinical spin from Keshav Maharaj, forcing today’s winner-takes-all decider at Hagley Oval.

This is the start of our live blog of the 5th T20I match between New Zealand and South Africa from the scenic Hagley Oval in Christchurch. Stay tuned for the build-up.