New Zealand v South Africa

At Christchurch, February 17, 2004 (day/night). New Zealand won by five wickets. Toss: South Africa.

Rain meant the covers stayed on for most of the morning and delayed the start by 30 minutes. There was extravagant early movement off another drop-in pitch in a rugby stadium - and Smith's decision to bat seemed unwise. But he played a fighting innings, was well supported by the South African middle order, and 132 runs came from the last 20 overs. Ntini then struck twice in his first three overs before Fleming took over. He played superbly to make his sixth one-day international century, all of which had anchored successful run-chases. In the process, he became the first New Zealander to 6,000 one-day international runs. McMillan struck the ball firmly, and his century partnership with Fleming ensured New Zealand were always in touch with the required rate.

Man of the Match: S. P. Fleming.