Off-spinning all-rounder Kevin Sinclair showcased his prowess with a devastating spell that undermined notable half-centuries from Khayelihle Zondo and Neil Brand, giving West Indies ‘A’ the upper hand against hosts South Africa ‘A’ in the decisive third “Test” match on Tuesday.
The 24-year-old Guyanese athlete concluded his exceptional performance with figures of five for 44 from 14.4 overs, leading to South Africa’s dismissal for 274 in their first innings after they opted to bat on the opening day of the four-day, first-class encounter at Mangaung Oval.
Fellow Guyanese fast bowler Shamar Joseph provided valuable support, securing three wickets for 65 runs from his 15 overs, while Grenadian pacer Shermon Lewis contributed with two wickets for 68 runs from 13 overs. These combined efforts propelled the Caribbean side to a strong start in the match.
A top score of 70
South Africa ‘A’ saw Zondo leading their batting with a top score of 70, while their captain, Brand, added 62 runs to the total. Zubayr Hamza made 30, and contributions of 25 each came from Raynard van Tonder and Clyde Fortuin, with Hardus Viljoen scoring 24.
At the close of play, West Indies ‘A’ reached 17 for one in their first innings, with opener Zachary McCaskie undefeated on 12, and left-handed batsman Kirk McKenzie not out on two.
The visitors encountered an early setback when left-handed opener Tagenarine Chanderpaul was caught in the slips off the bowling of pacer Duanne Olivier, managing just three runs in the fifth over of the eight overs played before stumps were drawn.
Currently tied at 1-1
The ongoing three-match series between these two sides is currently tied at 1-1. West Indies ‘A’ won the first match by a slender one-wicket margin two Fridays ago at Willowmoore Park in Benoni, while South Africa ‘A’ bounced back to secure a 232-run victory in the second match at Buffalo Park in East London.
West Indies ‘A’ had toiled for more than an hour and a quarter in the field before Joseph made the crucial breakthrough by dismissing opener van Tonder, who was caught behind attempting a leg-side flick.
