The first Check between West Indies and South Africa at Queen’s Park Oval, Port of Spain, was a grueling affair that finally resulted in a draw. Rain performed a major position all through the match, interrupting play on a number of events and denying followers a conclusive consequence.
Temba Bavuma and Tony De Zorzi lead the cost
South Africa received the toss and elected to bat first on a pitch that appeared to supply early help to the bowlers. The Proteas managed to place up a stable complete of 357 all out, with captain Temba Bavuma anchoring the innings with a composed 86 off 182 balls. He was well-supported by Tony de Zorzi, who performed a fluent knock of 78 off 145 deliveries. The pair’s partnership was essential in stabilizing South Africa after the early lack of openers.
The West Indies bowlers put up a commendable battle, with left-arm spinner Jomel Warrican being the standout performer, claiming 4 wickets for 69 runs. Jayden Seales additionally impressed with the ball, taking 3 for 67, however South Africa’s batsmen managed to take their group to a formidable first-innings rating.
Battle for runs
In reply, the West Indies batting lineup struggled to construct any important partnerships, folding for 233 runs. Keacy Carty top-scored with a cautious 42, whereas Jason Holder contributed a useful 36 decrease down the order. Regardless of their efforts, the guests discovered it troublesome to deal with the disciplined South African bowling assault.
Keshav Maharaj led the cost with the ball for the Proteas, taking 4 wickets for 76 runs, successfully stifling the West Indies’ momentum. Kagiso Rabada additionally performed a key position, choosing up 3 wickets for 56 runs, making certain that the West Indies remained beneath fixed stress.
Additionally WATCH: WI vs SA – Aiden Markram offers an animated send-off to Jason Holder throughout Day 4 of the primary Check
Aggressive declaration
With a 124-run lead, South Africa got here out with constructive intent of their second innings. They declared at 173 for 3, giving the West Indies a difficult goal of 298 runs to win. Tristan Stubbs showcased his aggressive stroke play with a brisk 68 off simply 50 balls, whereas De Zorzi continued his tremendous type, contributing a gentle 45 from 60 deliveries. The declaration was well-timed, organising an intriguing ultimate session of the match.
West Indies’ fightback: Alick Athanaze’s defiance
Chasing 298 for victory, the West Indies put up a decided battle, led by a splendid innings from Alick Athanaze, who scored 92 off 116 balls. His efforts gave the guests a glimmer of hope, however the South African bowlers, significantly Maharaj, stored issues tight. Maharaj completed with figures of 4 for 88, making certain that the West Indies’ chase by no means gained full momentum.
As the ultimate day drew to an in depth, the West Indies managed to achieve 201 for five, with the match finally ending in a draw. The guests confirmed resilience within the face of a frightening goal, however South Africa’s bowlers did simply sufficient to forestall a consequence.
Each groups displayed moments of dominance, with South Africa controlling the early proceedings, whereas the West Indies fought again strongly within the second innings. The match resulted in a well-earned draw, with each side having loads of positives to take into the subsequent encounter.
