South Africa ‘A’ claims series victory despite Da Silva’s heroics

In a gripping series finale, Captain Joshua Da Silva’s remarkable century could not salvage victory for West Indies “A,” as they suffered a 76-run loss to South Africa “A,” resulting in a 2-1 series win for the hosts.

The West Indies “A” team began the fourth and final day at the Manguang Oval in Bloemfontein, requiring 374 runs for victory, with Kirk McKenzie (26) and Tagenarine Chanderpaul (11) at the crease. The pair displayed impressive resilience, adding 79 runs for the second wicket.

McKenzie, in particular, showcased aggression and skill, contributing a valiant 81 off 94 balls, featuring 13 fours and two sixes, before falling to Duanne Olivier in the 40th over. Chanderpaul’s patient 31 off 128 balls followed suit shortly after.

Debutant Jordan Johnson’s departure for nine brought Joshua Da Silva and Kavem Hodge together. The duo orchestrated an 84-run partnership for the fifth wicket, putting pressure on the South African side. Hodge played a pivotal role with a well-compiled 47 before departing in the 68th over with the score at 233.

Just 10 batsmen

Despite facing adversity, West Indies “A” continued to fight, with Kevin Sinclair (23), Akeem Jordan (13), and Shamar Joseph (0) falling in quick succession. Compounded by an injury to Jayden Seales, they found themselves with just 10 batsmen.

However, Da Silva’s remarkable innings stole the spotlight as he reached his fourth first-class century in the 90th over, ultimately scoring 110 off 138 balls, comprising eight fours and two sixes. In the end, he was the last batsman dismissed.

Dane Paterson led the South African bowling attack with figures of 4-66 from 20.1 overs, while Ruan de Swardt contributed with 2-45 from 15 overs.

Final Scores: South Africa “A”: 274 (Khaya Zondo 70, Neil Brand 62, Zubayr Hamza 30, Kevin Sinclair 5-44, Shamar Joseph 3-65, Shermon Lewis 2-68) & 272-5 dec. (Zubayr Hamza 110*, Ruan de Swardt 86, Khaya Zondo 31, Raynard Van Tonder 30, Shamar Joseph 5-76) West Indies “A”: 126 (Kevin Sinclair 50, Jordan Johnson 33, Dane Paterson 4-34, Hardus Viljoen 2-43) & 344-9 (Joshua Da Silva 110, Kirk McKenzie 81, Kavem Hodge 47, Dane Paterson 4-66, Ruan de Swardt 2-45)