GROS ISLET, St. Lucia – With poise, precision, and leadership from the front, Marcus Ackerman steered South Africa ‘A’ to a comfortable seven-wicket victory over West Indies ‘A’ on the final day of the second unofficial ‘Test’ match at the Daren Sammy National Cricket Stadium on Wednesday.
Resuming on 68 for two, the visitors required a modest 32 runs to complete the chase. Ackerman, the South African captain, remained unbeaten on 35, showcasing patience and authority as he calmly orchestrated the run chase.
Qeshile provides support with confident knock
Joining Ackerman in the middle, wicketkeeper Sinethemba Qeshile played a crucial supporting role, contributing a measured 26 off 42 deliveries, including four boundaries. The pair added vital runs with minimal fuss, stifling any hopes the hosts had of a dramatic final-day turnaround.
Though Qeshile was eventually bowled by seamer Johann Layne in the 18th over, his efforts ensured the South Africans were firmly in control. Lhuan-dre Pretorius finished unbeaten on six, partnering with Ackerman to push the score to 100 for three and seal the win.
Series decided in dominant fashion
The victory handed South Africa ‘A’ a 2-0 series sweep, affirming their dominance throughout the unofficial Test campaign in the Caribbean. Ackerman’s unbeaten innings on the final day was a fitting finish to a tour defined by disciplined bowling, sharp fielding, and calm leadership under pressure.
There were few alarms for the visitors on the concluding morning, as they methodically picked off the remaining runs needed, ending the contest well before the lunch break.
