By Razeen Gutta
South Africa were once again on the wrong side of the West Indies with the white ball — this time losing the opening T20 international by 3 wickets in Centurion.
Following the drawn ODI series, South Africa would have hoped to end their home tour against the Windies with an emphatic win. However by the end of proceedings at a rainy Supersport Park, the hope once again is merely to bounce back.
The weather delay meant that from 20 overs a side the game was reduced to just 11, with each of the 66 deliveries meaning more than they usually do as South Africa batted first.
Quinton de Kock was dismissed on the very first of those important balls, and in the second over Rilee Roussouw was gone as well.
Reeza Hendricks attempted to steady the ship knowing well that he needed to get runs on board quickly. He put up a rapid 21 but Odean Smith ensured he could not go beyond the halfway point of the innings.
And so, it would be Miller time.
David Miller played one of his trademark knocks to get the hosts to a promising score of 131/8 in the 11 overs. But in the middle of the chasing pack waited the man of the match.
23 off 8 for Brandon King and 28 off 14 for Johnson Charles helped the runs tick early on, but once Rovman Powell took to the crease, there was no looking back.
The visiting skipper played an unbeaten knock of 43 from 18 to chase down the mammoth total with three balls to spare and give his side a 1-0 lead in the series.
The Proteas will have a short turnaround time as they look to come back from behind and win; with the second and final matches of the tour taking place on Sunday and Tuesday.
Pictured above: Rovman Powell
Image source: @WindiesCricket
