An electrifier A clash between West Indies and South Africa during the first T20 international, West Indies won, comfortably chasing the target of 175 with 7 wickets in hand. The match witnessed some great performances by both the teams which showcased some exciting cricket but Nicholas Pooran‘s blistering knock and Alik Atanaz‘s played a staggering six shows.
Amazing six by Alik Athanaz
In the second over of West Indies’ chase, Athanaze provided one of the most thrilling moments of the game. Facing South Africa Bjorn FortuinAthanaze showed great skill and timed the ball for a magnificent six. It was a classic sweeper shot that saw the left-hander drop to one knee, time the delivery perfectly and flick it behind square for an elegant maximum. The shot immediately caught the attention of fans and commentators alike and added to Windies’ chase of 175.
We present the video:
Alick Athanaze on fire🔥 to start #MenInMaroon kick kick!🏏💥#WIvSA #T20Fest pic.twitter.com/UCsLqwVrLn
– Windies Cricket (@windiescricket) August 23, 2024
Athanaze’s overall contribution was significant, scoring a valuable 40 off 30 deliveries marked by two fours and three powerful sixes. His composed and aggressive strokes helped create the platform for a successful chase.
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Tristan Stubbs and Patrick Kruger come up with crucial runs
South Africa won the toss and elected to bat, posting a competitive score of 174/7 in the allotted 20 overs. They were the main contributors to the Proteas’ batting line-up Patrick Kruger and Tristan Stubbs. Kruger delivered a remarkable 44 off 32 balls, studded with four boundaries and two sixes. However, it was Stubbs who really shone, hitting a sensational 76 off just 42 balls. With eight fours and three powerful sixes, Stubbs helped South Africa to a difficult total with a high strike rate of 180.95.
Led the West Indies bowling attack Matthew FordeDelivering a brilliant spell claiming 3 wickets for 27 runs, four overs. Forde’s wickets included the captaincy of South Africa Aiden Markramtilting the balance further in favor of the West Indies.
Nicholas Pooran and Shai Hope lead the charge
In reply, West Indies chased down the target of 175 with ease, finishing at 176/3 in just 17.5 overs. This chase was anchored by fine half-centuries Shai Umid and Pooran. Umid played a steady innings, scoring 51 off 36 balls, providing the necessary stability at the top.
However, it was Pura’s explosive batting that swung the match in West Indies’ favour. Pooran attacked the South African bowlers savagely, smashing 65 runs off just 26 balls. His knock included two boundaries and an astonishing seven sixes at a terrific strike rate of 250.00. Pura’s dominance with the bat earned him the Player of the Match award and ensured a comfortable victory for the West Indies.
West Indies chased the target with 13 balls and won the match by 7 wickets. The win not only highlighted their batting power but also their ability to handle pressure situations with confidence.
