By Razeen Gutta
South Africa’s ICC T20 World Cup campaign began on a rainy, stop-start note as Zimbabwe survived defeat by the narrowest of margins courtesy of the weather gods.
After a half-hour delay to the toss, Zimbabwe’s Craig Ervine surprisingly elected to bat first. It mattered little as the rescheduled start time had to be moved further as the rain began to fall just as the national anthems had concluded.
Two hours later, the game was reduced to nine overs per side and Kagiso Rabada opened the bowling for the Proteas.
Going with four pacers helped South Africa to five wickets, with Wayne Parnell and Lungi Ngidi striking in the early overs before Sean Williams was run out to leave Zimbabwe in trouble at 19/4.
Wesley Madhevere batted well to get his side to 79/5 in their nine overs, but Quinton de Kock came out all guns blazing in the run chase.
The game was delayed again and South Africa’s target was changed to 64 in seven overs. Temba Bavuma, who opened with De Kock, faced just two deliveries in the first three overs while De Kock scored a rapid 47.
The 29-year-old hit eight fours and a six in his 18 balls, and just when it looked as if the Proteas were about to chase down the target — the rain fell again.
This time it extended to beyond the cut-off time; and despite being just 13 runs away, the game ended in a no result.
South Africa will next take on Bangladesh in Sydney on Thursday.
Image source: @ICC
