The emphatic win gave South Africa an early 1-0 lead in the three-match series and underlined their batting depth and bowling discipline at home.
West Indies post a competitive total after medium-order resistance
Batting first after South Africa won the toss and elected to bowl, West Indies posted 173 for 7 in the 20 overs allotted. The innings was built around a fluent stroke from Shimron Hetmyer, who top scored with a stylish 48 off 32 balls, hitting 4 fours and 3 sixes.
The early momentum came from Brandon King, who hit a quick 27 off 16 deliveries, but steady wickets prevented the visitors from taking full advantage of the start. Contributions from Roston Chase (22) and Rovman Powell (29 not out) helped West Indies reach a competitive total on a good batting surface.
The South African bowlers delivered a controlled performance, with spin playing a key role in the middle overs. George Linde was the standout performer, picking up three crucial wickets to halt the West Indies’ momentum.
Player of the match: George Linde#cricket #SAvWI #1stT20I pic.twitter.com/zqivO1STce
— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) January 28, 2026
Keshav Maharaj also contributed with two scalps, while Corbin Bosch claimed major breakthroughs at the top.
Aiden Markram, Lhuan-dre Pretorius and Ryan Rickelton seal record victory for South Africa
South Africa’s response started with intent as a young opener Lhuan-dre Pretorius took the attack to the bowlers. Pretorius hit a confident 44 off 28 balls and added a lively opening partnership of 83 runs with Markram, putting the hosts firmly in control during the powerplay.
Although Pretorius fell while attempting to accelerate, the damage had already been done, leaving South Africa well ahead of the required run-rate.
From there, Markram combined seamlessly with wicketkeeper-batsman Ryan Rickelton to guide South Africa home without any further problems. The pair added an unbroken stand of 93 runs, calmly dismantling the West Indies bowling attack.
Markram was imperious and finished unbeaten on 86 off just 47 balls, crossing the boundary with nine fours and three sixes. Rickelton provided excellent support with a smooth 40 not out from 32 deliveries, ensuring no late hiccups.
South Africa reached 176 for 1 in just 17.5 overs, marking their biggest T20I win against the West Indies in terms of wickets.
South Africa beats West Indies by 9 wickets #cricket #SAvWI #1stT20I pic.twitter.com/d1D9prLLHe
— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) January 28, 2026
Also READ: Harry Brook and Joe Root’s unbeaten tons propel England to victory over Sri Lanka in 3rd ODI
#South #Africa #records #record #win #West #Indies #T20I #series #opener #Paarl