Aiden Markram led from the front, scoring an unbeaten 86 off 47 balls as South Africa beat the West Indies by nine wickets in the opening T20 International at Boland Park in Paarl.
The Proteas chased down 173 with ease, thanks to Markram’s flawless innings and an 83-run opening stand with Lhuan-dre Pretorius (44).
The captain’s control was evident, striking nine fours and three sixes while conceding just eight dot balls.
Ryan Rickelton (40) joined him in an unbeaten 93-run partnership, sealing the win with 13 balls to spare.
In the first innings, the West Indies struggled to 95/5 before Shimron Hetmyer (48) and Rovman Powell (29*) combined for a 74-run sixth-wicket stand.
George Linde (3-25), Keshav Maharaj (2-44) and Corbin Bosch (2-35) led South Africa’s bowling charge.
Linde was named player of the match and touched on his role in the game: “I’m comfortable bowling wherever the captain needs me. With the new ball, in the middle or at the death,” he said post-match.
“I like testing myself and doing whatever the team requires. I love batting, but in this squad I probably see myself more as a bowler.”
The visitors will hope to level matters in Centurion on Thursday before the Wanderers awaits for its annual Pink Day showpiece on Saturday.
Pictured above: Aiden Markram
Source: @proteasmencsa
