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Nicholas Pooran’s explosive performance led the West Indies to a commanding seven-wicket victory over South Africa in the first T20I of their three-match series at the Brian Lara Stadium in Trinidad. Chasing a target of 175, the West Indies comfortably reached 176-3 with 13 balls to spare, taking a 1-0 lead in the series.
South Africa, after being put in to bat, struggled initially, finding themselves at 42-5 within the first eight overs. However, a resilient partnership between Tristan Stubbs and Patrick Kruger helped the Proteas recover to a respectable 174-7. Stubbs was particularly impressive, smashing 76 off 42 balls, while Kruger contributed 44 off 32 deliveries.
Despite the Proteas’ efforts, the West Indies’ response was swift and powerful. Openers Alick Athanaze and Shai Hope laid a strong foundation with an 84-run partnership in just eight overs. Athanaze scored 40, while Hope added a composed 51 before being dismissed. However, it was Pooran who stole the show. Coming in after the fall of the first wicket, Pooran unleashed a brutal assault on the South African bowlers, scoring an unbeaten 65 off just 26 balls, including seven towering sixes.
South Africa’s bowling attack, led by Ottneil Baartman, who took 2 wickets, struggled to contain the West Indies’ top order. Nandre Burger and captain Aiden Markram also faced difficulties, with their overs being heavily punished by Pooran and Hope.
This victory not only gave the West Indies a lead in the series but also showcased their batting depth and ability to chase challenging targets with ease. The second T20I is set to be played at the same venue on August 26, where South Africa will look to bounce back and level the series.