Dewald Brevis produced another sensational display of power-hitting as South Africa bounced back from their opening defeat to Namibia with a seven-wicket victory over Zimbabwe in the Namibia T20I Tri-Series in Windhoek on Saturday. Chasing 145, South Africa reached 146/3 in 13.4 overs, with Brevis smashing an unbeaten 75 off 32 balls to take the Proteas to their first points of the tournament.
Zimbabwe lose momentum after strong start
Zimbabwe made an explosive start after opting to bat, with Brian Bennett (34 off 35) and Ben Curran (24 off 12) putting on 45 for the opening wicket. The Chevrons reached 76/1 midway through their innings and appeared set for a sizeable total. However, South Africa’s spinners tightened the screws in the middle overs, triggering a collapse.Zimbabwe lost seven wickets for just 68 runs in the final 10 overs. Tadiwanashe Marumani provided some late resistance with a brisk 30 off 13 balls, but the Chevrons finished on 144/8.Duan Jansen was expensive but effective, taking 3/45, while Prenelan Subrayen claimed 2/27. Bjorn Fortuin also chipped in with a wicket.
Brevis puts Zimbabwe attack to the sword
South Africa’s chase quickly became a one-sided affair. Brevis walked in at No. 3 and immediately took the attack to the bowlers. The youngster smashed 75 not out from just 32 balls, including seven fours and six sixes.He had scored 75 in South Africa’s opening defeat to Namibia, but this time his innings came with strong support from the top order. Graeme Cremer endured a difficult return to the side, conceding 32 runs from his two overs, while Zimbabwe struggled to contain South Africa’s aggressive approach.The Proteas completed the chase with 38 balls to spare, sealing a comprehensive seven-wicket win.
South Africa bounce back in style
The victory was a strong response from South Africa after they had lost to Namibia by 18 runs in their opening game. The Proteas improved significantly with both ball and bat, while Brevis once again provided the standout individual performance and was named Player of the Match.South Africa now move to two points and remain in contention for a place in the final, while Zimbabwe begin their campaign with a defeat. Namibia will next face Zimbabwe on August 31, with the Chevrons needing a victory to keep their hopes alive.
