South Africa kicked off their Zimbabwe Tri-Series campaign with a commanding win that left the hosts heartbroken. After a shaky start at 38/3 in the powerplay, CSK star Dewald Brevis turned the game around with a blazing 41 off just 17 balls, including five sixes, powering the Proteas to a successful chase of 142 in just 15 overs, thanks to his firepower and the cool knock of Rubin Hermann.
Proteas Restrict Zimbabwe to a Under par Total
In a livelier pitch, South Africa put Zimbabwe in to bat to start the game. Early on, Zimbabwe's top-order problems were apparent as they only scored 34 runs in the powerplay while losing two wickets., as they managed just 34 runs for the loss of two wickets in the powerplay. Skipper Sikandar Raza stood firm with a fighting 54 off 38 balls, guiding his side to a below-par total of 141 in 20 overs.
In reply, South Africa’s chase got off to a shaky start. Lhuan Dre-Pretorius fell for a first-ball duck, followed by Reeza Hendricks for 11 (9). Captain Rassie van der Dussen also got a start but couldn’t convert, dismissed for 16 (13) by Trevor Gwandu, leaving the Proteas at 38/3 at the end of the powerplay.
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Brevis Storm hits the Harare
Despite the modest target, Zimbabwe looked to have the upper hand. But Dewald Brevis and Rubin Hermann turned the momentum. While Hermann played the anchor role, Brevis launched an onslaught, smashing 5 sixes in a 72-run stand. Brevis was eventually dismissed by Gwandu, but by then the game had tilted in South Africa’s favour.Â
With 32 runs still required in the last 8 overs, Proteas all-rounder Corbin Bosch stepped up and finished up the chase in style, guiding South Africa to a five-wicket win with three overs to spare in Harare.
Brevis Blasts Past Zimbabwe’s Spin Plan to Seal Player of the Match
Dewald Brevis was deservedly named Player of the Match for his explosive knock. Zimbabwe’s strategy to contain him with spin completely backfired, as they underestimated his dominance against slower bowlers. Even though they had the upper hand after the power play, they couldn’t hold on to defend their total.
South Africa will now take on New Zealand in their next match at Harare Sports Club.
