The West Indies clinched their T20I series against South Africa with a commanding 30-run victory in the second match at the Brian Lara Stadium. This triumph marks the Caribbean side’s third consecutive T20I series win over the Proteas, solidifying their dominance in the shortest format of the game.
Chasing a target of 180, South Africa made a blistering start, with Reeza Hendricks leading the charge. Hendricks was in explosive form, hammering boundaries at will during the powerplay. Despite the early loss of Ryan Rickelton, the Proteas raced to 67/1 in just five overs, appearing well on track to chase down the total.
However, the introduction of Romario Shepherd into the attack turned the game on its head. Shepherd struck in the final over of the powerplay, removing Hendricks for a quick-fire 44 off 18 balls. This dismissal proved to be the turning point, as South Africa’s momentum faltered.
Skipper Aiden Markram looked promising but also fell victim to Shepherd’s brilliance. Although Tristan Stubbs and Rassie van der Dussen attempted to revive the chase with a 43-run partnership, the West Indies’ spin duo of Akeal Hosein and Gudakesh Motie dismantled the middle order. South Africa collapsed from 129/3 to being all out for 149, handing the West Indies an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series.
Earlier, after being put in to bat, the West Indies posted a competitive total of 179/6. Openers Shai Hope (28) and Alick Athanaze (41) provided a solid foundation, while Rovman Powell and Sherfane Rutherford unleashed a flurry of runs in the final overs to boost the team’s score.
In the series opener, the West Indies had already demonstrated their prowess by chasing down South Africa’s total of 174 with a comfortable 7-wicket win. With this series victory secured, the teams will meet again in the final T20I on Tuesday at the same venue.
