South Africa won the toss and elected to bat first. The visitors got off to a strong start, scoring 40 runs in the powerplay, but losing the wicket of Suné Luus (13) in the fourth over, caught off the bowling of Karishma Ramharack.  

Tamzin Brits’ 20 off 24 balls and captain Laura Wolvaardt’s 28 off 24 laid a solid platform for a stunning unbeaten 59 off 38 by youngster Miané Smit (7 fours, 1 six), to help South Africa post 147/6. It was Smit’s maiden T20I half-century in only her third T20 international.

Ramharack and Afy Fletcher were once again the most successful bowlers for the hosts, taking two wickets each – Ramharack for 18 runs in her four overs, and Fletcher for 28 runs in four overs.

In reply, the West Indies faced early setbacks. Kapp (2/27) and Ayabonga Khaka (1/22) removed openers Qiana Joseph (6) and Realeanna Grimmond (5), leaving the hosts at 32/2 in the sixth over. Skipper Matthews then found solid support in the experienced Shemaine Campbelle (42), with the pair teaming up for a pivotal 82-run partnership for the third wicket. Matthews brought up her 19th T20I half-century during the stand. 

Although Matthews was eventually bowled by Luus (1/21), Campbelle and the explosive Chinelle Henry (20*) added another important 22 runs for the fourth wicket to take their side to the brink of victory. 

The in-batter at the crease, Henry, showcased her hitting prowess with a six and a four in the penultimate over, guiding the West Indies to a memorable 2-1 series win over the South Africans.

For 65 runs on the board and one wicket, Matthews won the Player of the Match, and for a total of 147 runs in total as well as two wickets, she was also crowned Player of the Series.

OFM Sport/Ilse Smalberger cg