The New Zealand Emerging cricket side has lost its opening Twenty20 match in the Emerging Players 2009 tournament in Brisbane, going down to South Africa in a closely fought second-last ball finish.
New Zealand batted first and reached 129 for 8 in their 20 overs, with Colin de Grandhomme scoring 49 from 34 balls, BJ Watling 29 and Reece Young 24 not out.
In reply South Africa went through to 19.5 overs to complete the run chase, losing four wickets. Tim Southee was best of the New Zealand bowlers, taking 2/24 from his four overs.
New Zealand play the Australian Institute of Sport in a 50 over match today.
