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In a commanding performance, the West Indies triumphed over South Africa by eight wickets in the third and last T20I at the Brian Lara Stadium, completing a clean sweep of the series with a 3-0 victory. The match, affected by rain, saw the West Indies chase down a revised target of 116 runs in just 9.2 overs, showcasing their aggressive batting approach.
West Indies’ bowlers maintain pressure on South Africa batters
After winning the toss, the West Indies elected to bowl first. South Africa managed to post 108 runs for the loss of four wickets in their allotted 13 overs. Tristan Stubbs was the standout performer for the visitors, scoring a brisk 40 runs off 15 balls, including five fours and three sixes. Ryan Rickelton contributed 27 runs, while Aiden Markram added 20 runs to the total.
The West Indies bowlers were effective in restricting South Africa’s scoring, with Romario Shepherd leading the charge. Shepherd claimed two wickets for just 14 runs in his two overs, while Akeal Hosein and Matthew Forde each took one wicket, helping to maintain pressure on the South African batting lineup.
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Shai Hope leads West Indies’ batting charge
Chasing a revised target, the West Indies displayed their batting prowess right from the start. Shai Hope led the innings with an unbeaten 42 runs off 24 balls, hitting one four and four sixes. Nicholas Pooran provided explosive support, scoring 35 runs off just 13 deliveries, while Shimron Hetmyer contributed 31 runs off 17 balls and remained not out.
The West Indies reached 116 runs for the loss of just two wickets, achieving the target with ease and hitting a total of nine sixes and seven fours in their innings. This aggressive approach was a testament to their intent to dominate the match and secure the series.
Player of the Match
Romario Shepherd was named Player of the Match for his economical bowling performance, which played a crucial role in limiting South Africa’s runs. West Indies’ stand-in-captain Roston Chase praised the team’s efforts, stating, “In a shortened game, we want guys to play their natural game. We wanted to capitalize on the powerplay which would have made it easier in the chase.”
South Africa’s captain Aiden Markram acknowledged the challenges faced by his team but remained optimistic about future performances. “Tough one today. The rain didn’t help. The conditions did change. Lot of learnings for us. We will know the value of experience. Conditions wise, we have played here. We could see the bigger picture,” he said in the post-match presentation.
