West Indies continued their stunning form by defeating South Africa by 30 runs in the second T20I of the three-match series against South Africa at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Tarouba. The win secured the Twenty20 international series for the Rovman Powell-led side with a game to spare.
After being put to bat first, West Indies got off to a flying start, scoring over 50 runs in the powerplay. Despite facing some trouble in the middle-order, they managed to set a competitive target of 180 runs, revving from 111-4 after 14 overs. Shai Hope scored a crucial 41 off 22 balls, including two fours and four sixes. Meanwhile, captain Powell contributed 35 runs from 22 balls, which was studded with three maximums.
Lizaad Williams was the pick of bowlers for South Africa, finishing with impressive figures of 3/36 in his four-over spell. Meanwhile, Patrick Kruger and Ottniel Baartman picked up two and one wicket, respectively.
During their chase, South Africa also started well, with Ryan Rickelton and Reeza Hendricks putting on a 63-run opening stand. Shamar Joseph was the first to provide a breakthrough for the West Indies, dismissing wicketkeeper-batter Rickelton for 20 runs in the fifth over. Shortly, Romario Shepherd made a crucial impact, removing Hendricks and captain Aiden Markram but left South Africa in a strong position 86/3 in eight overs. Hendricks has played a brisk 44 off just 18 deliveries, including six boundaries and two maximums, while Markram contributed 19 runs from nine balls.
Despite a solid start, South Africa’s chase faltered, and, at 138-6, they required 42 runs off the last four overs as West Indies’ bowlers dismantled their middle order. The tourists were eventually bowled out for 149 runs in 19.4 overs, allowing West Indies to clinch the series. Shepherd emerged as a standout performer for the hosts, claiming three for 15 and earning the Player of the Match award. Shamar Joseph also delivered a notable performance, finishing with figures of 3/31.
In addition, the hosts fielded the same team that won the opening T20I by seven wickets at the same stadium last Friday. Meanwhile, the Proteas made one change, bringing in Lizaad Williams in place of fast-medium left-armer Nandre Burger. The third and final T20I is scheduled for Tuesday, also at Tarouba.
