South Africa beats New Zealand by 20 runs

South Africa held off a late rally by New Zealand`s tailenders to win the first one-day international by 20 runs on Wednesday.

South Africa bowled New Zealand out for 284 in 48.1 overs to defend their 304-7 total at Supersport Park, after Hashim Amla earlier hit 124 in 126 balls for his record-equaling 21st one-day century for the Proteas.

Seemingly out of it at 251-8, Mitchell McClenaghan hit a four and a big six to bring New Zealand within range, until he was bowled by Dale Steyn for 16.

Steyn ended McClenaghan`s late attack, and effectively the game, with a full, fast delivery that broke the off stump in half.

Last man Ish Sodhi was run out next ball to confirm South Africa`s victory and a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

Steyn, Vernon Philander, David Wiese and Imran Tahir all took two wickets each for South Africa.

South Africa`s victory, which was some form of revenge for losing to New Zealand in the semifinals of this year`s World Cup, was set up by Amla, though.

His innings, with 13 fours and three sixes, took him level with Herschelle Gibbs for the most centuries for South Africa in ODIs. Amla was supported by 89 from Rilee Rossouw as the pair put on 185 in their second-wicket partnership, taking the hosts from 46-1 off 8.4 overs to 231-2 off 41.5 overs.

Opener Tom Latham hit 60 for the Black Caps, and captain Kane Williamson added 47 for a strong start. But New Zealand played some rash shots in the middle order, when batsmen were set for larger scores, to surrender the advantage.

Nathan McCullum was out for 10 to a running, diving catch by Farhaan Behardien on the square leg boundary.

James Neesham and McClenaghan hit some late boundaries, but Steyn and then a run out created by Vernon Philander finished it off.

The second game is in Potchefstroom on Sunday.