HARARE, Zimbabwe — South Africa defeated Zimbabwe by five wickets in the opening match of the T20 International Tri-Series at Harare Sports Club on Monday.
Chasing 142, the visitors reached their target in 15.5 overs, powered by a blistering 41 off 17 balls from Dewald Brevis and a steady 45 off 37 by Rubin Hermann. The pair shared a 72-run stand for the fourth wicket that swung the momentum in South Africa’s favor.
Earlier, Zimbabwe posted 141-6 after being sent in to bat. Captain Sikandar Raza anchored the innings with an unbeaten fluent 54 off 38 balls, including three boundaries and two sixes.
George Linde starred with the ball for South Africa, taking 3-10 in three overs, and was named Player of the Match. Richard Ngarava led Zimbabwe’s attack with 3-35, while Trevor Gwandu chipped in with 2-15.
South Africa’s chase was marked by aggression despite early wickets, with Brevis launching five sixes in a rapid-fire innings that took the game away from the hosts.
The match marked the start of the T20I Tri-Series. with upcoming fixtures scheduled throughout the week at Harare Sports Club.
