Those NZ v South Africa great tests in full: Part 1

A three test series against a top nation starts tomorrow.  This is something we should cherish, because it’s something that will become rarer over time.  As in next year for example.

The first test played between the two sides resulted in a pretty easy win for the tourists.

This was Lindsay Weir’s best test for New Zealand.

And what is it about South African cricketers called Quintin? Clearly a weakness.

The NZ v SA cricket rivalry during this period will always be remembered by the events of Tangiwai, and its impact on Johannesburg at Christmas time 1953.  This will always be the enduring memory of NZ v SA in cricket.

There was also the 2-2 tied series in the Republic of 1961/2.  One of the great series yet…

Things were not as emotive or glamorous back in New Zealand.  Onto the rocking 1960s and this cracker of a test.

Check out Partridge’s bowling figures.  Test cricket at its best.

And in the final test there was this.  If nothing else, that was a gutsy rearguard.  Losing 7/16 in the first innings wasn’t ideal however.

Thankfully that was the last time South Africa toured here pre the Apartheid ban.

31 years later South Africa would return to be part of New Zealand’s 100 year celebrations.  A team in internal bickering versus a side captained by Hanse Cronje.

Perfect.