South Africa began their tri-nation T20I campaign in style with a five-wicket victory over Zimbabwe in Harare on Monday, thanks to a dominant bowling display from George Linde and a quickfire knock by Dewald Brevis. The tri-series also features New Zealand.
After winning the toss, South Africa, led by Rassie van der Dussen, chose to bowl first. Zimbabwe struggled early, losing Wessly Madhevere, Clive Madande, and Brian Bennett within the first 11 overs, with just 55 runs on the board. Skipper Sikandar Raza then steadied the innings with all-rounder Ryan Burl. Their 66-run partnership helped Zimbabwe recover, with Raza reaching his half-century in just 34 balls. Burl contributed a brisk 29 off 20 before falling to Nandre Burger, and Raza remained unbeaten on 54 as Zimbabwe posted 141 for 6 in 20 overs. George Linde was the pick of the bowlers for South Africa, finishing with 3 for 10 in three overs.
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In reply, South Africa’s chase got off to a shaky start. Debutant Lhuan-dre Pretorious was dismissed for a golden duck by Richard Ngarava, who also took out Reeza Hendricks and van der Dussen to leave South Africa struggling at 38 for 3. However, debutant Rubin Hermann and Dewald Brevis turned the momentum with a 72-run stand for the fourth wicket. Brevis smashed 41 off just 17 balls, including five sixes, before falling to Trevor Gwandu. Hermann made 45 off 37 before being dismissed by Ngarava.
With the team at 130 for 5 in the 15th over, Corbin Bosch’s composed 23* off 15 balls, along with Linde’s unbeaten 3*, guided South Africa home with 25 balls to spare. The strong start gives South Africa early momentum in the tri-nation series as they prepare to face New Zealand next.
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