West Indies secure T20I series 3-0 with comfortable win against South Africa

The West Indies secured a commanding eight wicket victory over South Africa in the third T20I at the Brian Lara Cricket Stadium, wrapping up the series 3-0. 

The match, reduced to 13 overs per side due to rain, saw the West Indies chase down a revised target of 116 with 22 balls to spare.

Shai Hope was instrumental in the chase, scoring a rapid 42* off 24 balls. He was supported by Nicholas Pooran, who contributed 35 runs, and Shimron Hetmyer, who remained unbeaten on 31*. The trio ensured a smooth pursuit of the modest target despite intermittent rain interruptions.

South Africa's innings, led by Tristan Stubbs, who hit a blistering 40 off just 15 deliveries, struggled against disciplined bowling from the West Indies. Akeal Hosein and Matthew Forde kept the early scoring in check, with Forde making notable efforts to restrict batsmen with his tight lines. However, a rain delay of an hour reduced the game and altered the dynamics significantly.

During South Africa's innings, the rain interruption came after Ryan Rickelton had struck a boundary and a six off Forde, and just before Reeza Hendricks was dismissed by Fabian Allen. Following the break, Aiden Markram also made an impact with a 16-run over against Gudakesh Motie.

Romario Shepherd's double strike dismissed both Markram and Rickelton, bringing Stubbs to the crease. He showcased aggressive intent, hitting two sixes and a four off Obed McCoy and Forde. His innings ended at 40 off 15 balls when he was caught by Allen off a slower delivery from Forde, leaving South Africa at 108 for 4 in 13 overs.

With a revised target of 116, the West Indies began their innings briskly. Alick Athanaze was dismissed early, caught by Aiden Markram off Bjorn Fortuin's bowling. However, Pooran quickly accelerated the scoring, hitting two sixes off Lizaad Williams and continuing his aggressive play against Ottneil Baartman with three boundaries and a six.

Shai Hope added to the total with an impressive performance, including three sixes off Kwena Maphaka. Despite a brief period of calm from Patrick Kruger, Hetmyer broke the shackles with a six and further boundaries, ensuring the West Indies completed the chase comfortably.