South Africa Beat Zimbabwe by 5 Wickets in T20 Tri-Series Opener

HARARE — South Africa began their T20 tri-series campaign with a convincing five-wicket win over Zimbabwe at Harare Sports Club on Monday, continuing their dominance over their regional rivals.

After winning the toss and opting to field, South Africa restricted Zimbabwe to 141-6 in their 20 overs. Captain Sikandar Raza held the innings together with an unbeaten 54, but lacked support from the other end.

The Proteas’ bowling attack was spearheaded by Lungi Ngidi, who bowled a miserly opening spell of 3 overs for just 7 runs and one wicket. George Linde, the left-arm spinner, impressed with 3 wickets for 10 runs, including two in a tight final over.

South Africa’s top order faltered early, losing three wickets during the powerplay to Zimbabwe’s sharp new-ball duo of Richard Ngarava (3-35) and Trevor Gwandu (2-15). However, debutant Rubin Hermann (45) and the explosive Dewald Brevis (41 off 17) stitched together a match-winning 72-run stand for the fourth wicket.

Brevis, named Player of the Match, entertained the Harare crowd with five sixes and a four, including three in a row off leg-spinner Ryan Burl.

South Africa chased down the target comfortably with overs to spare.

Captain Rassie van der Dussen commended the youngsters for keeping their composure.

“There was a little bit of pressure up front. Losing three in the powerplay wasn’t ideal, but their partnership was brilliant,” he said.

Zimbabwe captain Raza praised his bowlers despite the loss:

“We weren’t sure how the wicket would behave in winter. Now we know these will be high-scoring games.”

New Zealand will play their opening match of the tri-series when they face South Africa at the same venue on Wednesday.