In a thrilling encounter at the ICC Under-19 World Cup in Potchefstroom, South Africa emerged victorious against the West Indies, thanks to an outstanding performance by Kwena Maphaka. The left-handed quick took five wickets to lead his team to a hard-fought 31-run win.
The match seemed to be heading in the West Indies’ favor as they were comfortably chasing a target of 286, with just 36 runs needed and three wickets in hand. However, Maphaka had other plans.
He returned to the attack and delivered a fiery inswinging yorker that clean-bowled Nathan Edward, triggering a collapse for the visitors. The Windies, who were 250/7 at that point, were quickly bundled out for 254.
The standout performer for the West Indies was Jewel had Andrew, who played a magnificent innings of 130 from 96 balls, including 14 boundaries and 2 sixes.
He seemed to be steering his side to victory after they had been in trouble at 73/5 after 10 overs. Andrew, along with Nathan Sealy, who contributed 33 runs from 55 balls, put on a crucial partnership of 117 runs for the sixth wicket to give their team the advantage.
Earlier in the match, South Africa lost the toss and were sent in to bat. Wicketkeeper-opener Lhuan-dre Pretorius made a quick start, scoring 40 runs from 34 balls, before being bowled by Nathan Sealy.
This was the second blow for South Africa, as they were reduced to 60/2. David Teeger, who had been in the news off the field for his comments on the Israel-Palestine conflict, came to the crease under immense pressure after being stripped of his captaincy. However, he showed great determination, scoring 44 runs from 98 balls, to take the score to 145.
The West Indies fought back with a triple strike, reducing South Africa from 145/3 to 145/6 in just five deliveries. But it was Dewan Marais, batting at number six, who provided a much-needed boost to the South African innings.
Marais played a blistering knock of 65 runs from just 38 balls, including 4 fours and 4 sixes. Newly appointed skipper Juan James also contributed with a fine innings of 47 runs from 54 balls, helping South Africa post a challenging total of 285/9.
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Nathan Sealy was the standout bowler for the West Indies, finishing with impressive figures of 3/34 from his 10 overs. Despite their efforts, it was Kwena Maphaka’s remarkable spell of 5/38 that ultimately made the difference for South Africa.
This victory will undoubtedly boost the confidence of the South African team as they progress in the ICC Under-19 World Cup. Kwena Maphaka’s heroics with the ball and the contributions of the batsmen have set the stage for an exciting tournament ahead.
