![WI vs SA [WATCH]: Alick Athanaze slames a sensational six off Bjorn Fortuin in the first T20I](https://crickettimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Alick-Athanaze-launched-a-stunning-six-off-Bjorn-Fortuin.webp "WI vs SA [WATCH]: Alick Athanaze slames a sensational six off Bjorn Fortuin in the first T20I")
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In an electrifying clash between West Indies and South Africa during the first T20 international, West Indies emerged victorious, comfortably chasing down the target of 175 with 7 wickets in hand. The match witnessed several standout performances, with both teams delivering exciting cricket, but it was Nicholas Pooran’s blistering knock and Alick Athanaze’s stunning six that stole the show.
Alick Athanaze’s stunning six
In the second over of the West Indies’ chase, Athanaze provided one of the game’s most thrilling moments. Facing South Africa’s Bjorn Fortuin, Athanaze displayed excellent skill and timing to send the ball soaring for a magnificent six. It was a classic sweep shot that saw the left-handed batter drop to one knee, perfectly timing the delivery and launching it behind square for an elegant maximum. The shot immediately caught the attention of fans and commentators alike, adding flair to the Windies’ pursuit of 175.
Here is the video:
Alick Athanaze on fire🔥to start the #MenInMaroon batting innings!🏏💥#WIvSA #T20Fest pic.twitter.com/UCsLqwVrLn
— Windies Cricket (@windiescricket) August 23, 2024
Athanaze’s overall contribution was significant, scoring a valuable 40 off 30 deliveries, punctuated by two fours and three powerful sixes. His composed and aggressive innings helped to set the platform for a successful chase.
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Tristan Stubbs and Patrick Kruger anchor with crucial runs
South Africa, having won the toss and elected to bat, posted a competitive total of 174/7 in their allotted 20 overs. The key contributors from the Proteas’ batting lineup were Patrick Kruger and Tristan Stubbs. Kruger delivered an important 44 off 32 balls, decorated with four boundaries and two sixes. However, it was Stubbs who truly shined, playing a sensational knock of 76 from just 42 balls. With eight fours and three towering sixes, Stubbs led the charge with a blistering strike rate of 180.95, helping South Africa to a challenging total.
West Indies’ bowling attack was led by Matthew Forde, who delivered a brilliant spell, claiming 3 wickets for 27 runs in his four overs. Forde’s wickets included South Africa’s captain Aiden Markram, further tilting the balance in West Indies’ favor.
Nicholas Pooran and Shai Hope lead the charge
In response, West Indies chased down the target of 175 with ease, finishing on 176/3 in just 17.5 overs. The chase was anchored by superb half-centuries from Shai Hope and Pooran. Hope played a steady innings, scoring 51 off 36 balls, providing the necessary stability at the top.
However, it was Pooran’s explosive innings that turned the match in West Indies’ favor. Pooran unleashed a brutal assault on the South African bowlers, smashing 65 runs off just 26 balls. His knock included two boundaries and a staggering seven sixes, with a monstrous strike rate of 250.00. Pooran’s dominance with the bat earned him the Player of the Match award and sealed West Indies’ comfortable victory.
West Indies won the match by 7 wickets, chasing down the target with 13 balls to spare. The victory not only underscored their batting strength but also highlighted their ability to handle pressure situations with confidence.
