Bjorn Fortuin and South Africa’s bowlers turned a competitive chase into a one-sided finish as Zimbabwe were bowled out for 142 to hand the Proteas a 43-run victory in the fourth match of the Namibia T20I Tri-Series in Windhoek on Tuesday.
Chasing 186, Zimbabwe made a bright start but quickly lost wickets to leave themselves in serious trouble. South Africa’s spinners then tightened the pressure, with captain Fortuin making the decisive contribution.
Fortuin claimed three wickets, including the crucial dismissal of Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza, who top-scored with 45 from 32 balls. Raza struck five fours and two sixes but could not carry his side through the chase.
Zimbabwe reached 106 for nine before their lower order tried to add some late runs. Kundai Matigimu provided a brief spark with a quick 21 from nine balls, but the required rate had already climbed beyond their reach.
The Zimbabwe innings eventually ended on 142, leaving South Africa with a comfortable victory. Earlier, South Africa had posted 185 for seven after captain Bjorn Fortuin chose to bat first.
Lhuan-dre Pretorius provided the foundation for the total with a career-best 94 from 51 balls. The left-hander struck 12 fours and three sixes and narrowly missed out on his maiden T20I century.
Pretorius first combined with Jordan Hermann in a rapid opening stand. Hermann made 28 from 25 balls before Wessly Madhevere ended the partnership in the eighth over. Dewald Brevis then joined Pretorius and helped South Africa accelerate. The pair added 86 runs, with Brevis contributing 41 from 27 deliveries, including two fours and three sixes.
South Africa appeared set for a total beyond 200 at 154 for one, but Zimbabwe fought back strongly in the closing overs. Madhevere finished with three wickets for 20 runs, while Brad Evans claimed two for 33.
Pretorius fell for 94 in the 19th over, and South Africa eventually finished on 185 for seven. The victory strengthens South Africa’s position in the tri-series after their earlier win over Zimbabwe.
