Tarouba: The West Indies successfully completed a 3-0 triumph over the T20 World Cup 2024 finalists, South Africa, securing an eight-wicket victory in the third and final match of the series at the Brian Lara Stadium.
Their comprehensive dominance over the South African team has been evident since March 2023, with the Caribbean side winning their last ten encounters, including a series victory against South Africa in three matches.
The South African team was afforded a chance to demonstrate their prowess in the final game of an engaging series, following a delay caused by rain that extended the game by an hour.
Despite the delay, no overs were lost when play resumed. However, a subsequent delay, necessitated by rain midway through South Africa's innings, which extended the game to over an hour, resulted in the match being shortened to 13 overs per side.
In pursuit of the adjusted target of 116, the West Indies encountered an early setback when Alick Athanaze was sent back to the dressing room just four balls into the chase.
Shai Hope and Nicholas Pooran then embarked on a formidable partnership that completely dismantled South Africa's chances of securing a clean sweep.
Pooran (35) misjudged his shot, which was returned by Jason Smith off Ottneil Baartman. However, the damage had already been done. Shimron Hetmyer (31*) then added the final strokes, securing an 8-wicket victory via the DLS method. Hope achieved a maximum score and concluded the chase with an unbeaten 42 runs.
Upon being placed in the field, South Africa struggled to make significant contributions, a recurring theme throughout the three-match series.
Captain Aiden Markram and Tristan Stubbs demonstrated a strong intent to drive South Africa's score, yet the entire batting team remained subdued by the spin duo of Akeal Hosein and Roston Chase, who combined to concede just 22 runs in five overs.
South Africa's difficulties began with the opening pair of Reeza Hendricks and Ryan Rickelton, who failed to deliver a strong start.
Hendricks was unable to find the necessary timing and was dismissed for 9 runs. Rickelton, however, continued to bat, scoring a few fours and sixes but was eventually dismissed by Romario Shepherd.
Tristan Stubbs emerged as the standout performer, showcasing exceptional stroke play. His fearless approach led him to score 40 runs at an impressive strike rate of 266.67. His efforts were instrumental in propelling the Proteas to 108/4.
Brief Score: West Indies 116/2 (Shai Hope 42*, Nicholas Pooran 35; Bjorn Fortuin 1-8) vs South Africa 108/4 (Tristan Stubbs 40; Romario Shepherd 2-14).
