St George’s – A blistering half-century from Evin Lewis set the foundation for West Indies to clinch a convincing eight-wicket victory over South Africa in the first Twenty20 International in Grenada.
Lewis struck four fours and seven sixes in 71 from 35 balls and shared an opening stand of 85 with hometown boy Andre Fletcher, and the Windies successfully chased 161 for victory at the National Cricket Stadium.
Fletcher made 30, Chris Gayle was not out on 32 and Andre Russell was not out on 23 and the Caribbean side cantered to victory with 30 balls remaining to take a 1-0 lead in the five-match series.
Russell formalised the result, when he swung pacer Lungi Ngidi over mid-wicket for the last of his three sixes.
Earlier, left-arm spinner Fabian Allen and all-rounder Dwayne Bravo shared four wickets for West Indies, but Rassie van der Dussen hit 56 from 38 balls to lead South Africa to 160 for six from their 20 overs, after they were sent in to bat.
Quinton de Kock hit 37 and South Africa captain Temba Bavuma supported with 22, but none of the visitors’ other batsmen were able to reach 20.
The second match of the series will be played on Sunday at the same venue.
Summarised scores:
South Africa 160 for six off 20 overs (Rassie van der Dussen 56 not out, Quinton de Kock 37, Temba Bavuma 22, Reeza Hendricks 17; Fabian Allen 2-18, Dwayne Bravo 2-30).
West Indies 161 for two off 15 overs (Evin Lewis 71, Chris Gayle 32 not out, Andre Fletcher 30, Andre Russell 23 not out).
(AR)
