https://www.india.com/
West Indies 143/8
South Africa 144/2
South Africa came back to win their third chase against the West Indies, resuming their T20 World Cup campaign. They accomplished it against a tumultuous backdrop: first, a directive from the CSA board that the team must collectively take a knee before matches at this tournament, with the choices of raising a fist or standing to attention no longer available, and then Quinton de Kock sitting out the match as a result. Heinrich Klaasen, who made one blunder but was generally immaculate behind the stumps, and Reeza Hendricks, who set the tone for the chase, were brought in to replace de Kock.
The onslaught by South Africa limited the West Indies to a score of 143. West Indies lost 8 for 64 between the 11th and 20th overs, falling short of what could have been a par score of 160. South Africa’s triumph was sealed in the 19th over, with to Hendricks’ 39. Rassie van der Dussen and Aiden Markram put on an 83-run stand. When Lewis and Simmons shared their greatest opening stand, 73, they created a solid platform for the West Indies. Gayle had threatened with a six off Tabraiz Shamsi as the West Indies reached the final three overs. He was the first victim of Dwaine Pretorius’s excellent death-bowling performance, which saw Gayle being caught behind off a slower ball before Anrich Nortje bowled Andre Russell with a perfect yorker. In the last three overs, South Africa took 5 for 22.
Markram has adapted to his spot down the order with ease, becoming South Africa’s highest T20I run-scorer in 2021 and their best run-scorer. He had some time to settle in after arriving at the crease with South Africa requiring 83 runs from 10.4 overs. His first hit in fury was a six-over-long-on off a full Hayden Walsh Jr delivery, followed by the same treatment for Kieron Pollard over square leg and Ravi Rampaul over midwicket. Markram was the ideal foil for van der Dussen, who isn’t known for his speed, and the innings were able to strike a mix between spectacular hits and meticulous accumulation. They scored 83 runs off 57 balls to lead South Africa to victory.
South Africa is already in contention for a place in the semi-finals, despite the fact that it is still early in the tournament. West Indies, on the other hand, are in trouble after losing both of their matches, and their job of defending the crown has taken a hit with still games against Australia and England remaining in the competition.