Lhuan-dre Pretorius smashes maiden T20I century as South Africa hold off Namibia by 11 runs..reports Africa Daily News Desk
Lhuan-dre Pretorius smashed his maiden T20 international century as South Africa edged Namibia by 11 runs to seal a place in the final of the T20I tri-series against Zimbabwe.
Pretorius struck a blistering 101 off 53 balls as the Proteas posted a formidable 228/4 at the Namibia Cricket Ground in Windhoek. Namibia responded with a spirited chase but fell just short, finishing on 217.
The victory was South Africa’s third in four matches and ensured they finished top of the group stage, setting up a final clash with Zimbabwe.
South Africa, seeking revenge after losing to Namibia in their opening match of the series, made a dominant start through Pretorius and wicketkeeper Connor Esterhuizen.
The pair put on a commanding 156-run partnership, with Esterhuizen narrowly missing out on a century after blasting 88 off just 40 deliveries, including eight sixes.
Namibian pacer John Balt broke the stand by dismissing Esterhuizen and struck again shortly afterwards when Dewald Brevis fell cheaply for three.
Pretorius, however, continued the assault and brought up his first T20I hundred, hammering five fours and eight sixes to propel South Africa towards a daunting total.
Namibia refused to be intimidated by the target and launched an equally aggressive reply. Louren Steenkamp and Jan Frylinck shared a 119-run opening partnership to give the hosts genuine hope.
Frylinck was particularly destructive, smashing 72 off 36 balls before his innings was ended by a spectacular catch from Tony de Zorzi.
Steenkamp continued to anchor the chase and made 61 off 44 deliveries before being forced to retire hurt, dealing Namibia a significant blow at a crucial stage.
South Africa eventually regained control through key wickets from Nqobani Mokoena and Andile Simelane, slowing Namibia’s momentum and closing out a tense contest.
The Proteas now head into the final in strong form and will face Zimbabwe, whom they have beaten twice during the group stage. However, Zimbabwe will be eager to turn the tables and claim the tri-series title.
