After a thrilling 12-run victory in the opening One Day International against South Africa on Saturday, the WHITE FERNS have switched their attention to the second match on Tuesday.
Fast bowler Lea Tahuhu acknowledged the team were ‘elated’ after the come from behind victory in Kimberley, but after a day off and training on Monday, the side was level and refocussed.
“As you can imagine the girls were pretty elated. It was definitely a come from behind win, but we always believe we can win any game and the first ODI proved that,” said Tahuhu.
“We enjoyed the victory that day and had the next day off to regroup and get ourselves fresh. We know how important these games are, so it doesn’t take too much to get the focus back. “
The 26-year-old Tahuhu played a significant role for the WHITE FERNS in the opening match, taking three quick wickets to have South Africa at 8-3. She missed a rare hat-trick opportunity, but finished with figures of 3-41 from from nine overs and helped the WHITE FERNS defend 127 for victory.
It also brought up 50 international wickets for Tahuhu, who admitted that the success early on in the innings had a flow on effect.
“As a strike bowler you always want to get the team off to a good start. I was pleased to get the team off on that note and we just carried on from there.
“We knew South Africa were going to be really tough coming over here and they proved that on Saturday. In saying that, we’re confident in our plans and know what we can achieve.”
The second ODI represents not only an opportunity to go 2-0 up in the series, but a chance for two more crucial ICC Women’s Championship points - a fact not lost on Tahuhu.
“These ICC points are definitely very important for us. We’re looking to win every game and if we do what we do well, I think we can.“
The second ODI in Kimberley starts at 9pm NZ time and will be live-scored on www.blackcaps.co.nz. You can also follow the team on Twitter - @WHITE_FERNS and on Instagram - @WHITE_FERNS.
