West Indies outplay South Africa to seal another series victory

Akeal Hosein and Romario Shepherd lead the charge as West Indies defend 179 in dramatic fashion

West Indies secured their third consecutive series victory against South Africa with a 30-run win at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy on Saturday, defending a total of 179.

South Africa seemed well-placed at 129 for 3 in the 14th over, but a collapse saw them lose 7 wickets for 20 runs in 35 balls, eventually being bowled out for 149 in 19.4 overs.

Key breakthroughs came from Akeal Hosein and Gudakesh Motie, who dismissed Tristan Stubbs and Donovan Ferreira, respectively. Romario Shepherd and Shamar Joseph then capitalised on the situation, with Shepherd taking 3 for 15 in four overs and Joseph finishing with a career-best 3 for 31. The pair ensured South Africa's chase derailed after appearing on track for victory.

West Indies knew that their total was achievable, especially after chasing down 175 at the same venue just two days prior. Although South Africa started strong, reaching 100 runs inside 10 overs, West Indies tightened their defence, allowing only one boundary between the 10th and 14th overs. This pressure led to mistakes from South Africa that ultimately cost them the match.

South Africa's middle order proved to be a concern, as only one batter from No. 3 onwards surpassed 20 runs. In a game where half-centuries were absent across both teams, West Indies dominated with 13 sixes compared to South Africa's six. West Indies' last five overs produced 50 crucial runs, with a 47-run stand between Rovman Powell and Sherfane Rutherford giving them an advantage.

Shai Hope set the tone for West Indies with a commanding innings. Though he fell just short of a half-century, scoring 41, his leg-side dominance was instrumental. Meanwhile, Patrick Kruger made an impact for South Africa, taking two wickets in quick succession.

Reeza Hendricks gave South Africa a promising start, scoring 44 runs and hitting 22 off a single over. However, his dismissal by Shepherd proved pivotal, and South Africa's hopes faded as Hosein and Shepherd cleaned up the tail, sealing West Indies' series victory.