Ntini's 10-wicket haul inspires S Africa win

CENTURION, Apr 19 (Reuters) Paceman Makhaya Ntini claimed his second consecutive 10-wicket haul as South Africa cruised to a 128-run victory over New Zealand in the first test today.

South Africa won after six overs of the final day's play when New Zealand, who had been chasing 249 to win, were dismissed for 120 in their second innings.

It was the home side's first win in 12 months and followed five defeats in six tests against Australia, home and away.

Ntini, who took five for 94 in the first innings, claimed 5-51 in the second to finish with match figures of 10-145. Fellow paceman Dale Steyn, in his fourth test, ended with five for 47, his first five-wicket haul.

Ntini also took 10-178 in the third test against Australia in Johannesburg earlier this month.

''He's bowled with pace and precision,'' captain Graeme Smith said. ''There's a crack on that wicket that Makhaya worked over the whole day yesterday, he hardly missed it.

''He's a thinking bowler now, and as a captain it's wonderful to be able to throw the ball to him -- something always happens.'' New Zealand resumed on 98 for seven and Ntini had opener Hamish Marshall caught behind by wicketkeeper Mark Boucher in the fifth over of the day.

Marshall had stood firm for 165 minutes for his 25 off 85 balls.

Four balls later Steyn had Daniel Vettori caught behind by Boucher for New Zealand's top score of 38.

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