South Africa made a commanding start to the T20I series against West IndiaA nine-wicket win in the opening match at Boland Park, Paarl on Tuesday. Captain Aiden Markram’s strong but strong unbeaten innings fueled the chase by two overs as the hosts overhauled the target of 174.
The real victory gave South Africa an early 1-0 lead in the three-match series and highlighted the home’s batting depth and bowling discipline.
West Indies post a competitive total after some middle-order resistance
First innings after South Africa win the toss and elect to bowl, West Indies posted 173 for 7 in the allotted 20 overs. The matches were built around the fluent batting of Shimron Hetmyer who top scored with 48 off 32 balls, 4 fours and 3 sixes.
The initial momentum came from Brandon King, who quickly smashed 27 off 16 deliveries, but regular wickets prevented the visitors from taking full advantage of the start. Contributions from Roston Chase (22) and Rovman Powell (29 not out) helped West Indies post a competitive total on a good batting surface.
South Africa’s bowlers put in a controlled performance, with spin playing a key role in the middle innings. George Linde caught the eye by scoring three crucial wickets to halt West Indies’ momentum.
Man of the match: George Linde#cricket #SavWI #1stT20I pic.twitter.com/zqivO1STce
— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) January 28, 2026
Keshav Maharaj also chipped in with two scalps while Corbin Bosch made important strides at the top.
Aiden Markram, Lhuan-dre Pretorius and Ryan Rickelton scored for South Africa
South Africa’s reply started with intent as the young opener Juan-dre Pretorius took the attack to the bowlers. Pretorius hit a confident 44 off 28 balls and added a quick 83-run opening partnership with Markram that put the hosts firmly in control during the power play.
Although Pretorius tried to accelerate, the damage had already been done, leaving South Africa well ahead of the required run-rate.
From there, Markram combined seamlessly with wicketkeeper-batsman Ryan Rickelton to guide South Africa home without further ado. The pair quietly dismantled the West Indies bowling attack, adding a 93-run stand.
Markram finished with an unbeaten 86 off 47 balls, hitting nine fours and three sixes to complete the boundary. Rickelton provided excellent support with a fluent 40 not out from 32 deliveries and ensured there were no late hiccups.
South Africa reached 176 for 1 in just 17.5 overs, marking their biggest T20I win against the West Indies in terms of wickets.
South Africa defeated West Indies by 9 wickets #cricket #SavWI #1stT20I pic.twitter.com/d1D9prLLHe
— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) January 28, 2026
Also READ: Harry Brook and Joe Root’s unbeaten tons propelled England to victory over Sri Lanka in the 3rd ODI.
