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| Imran Tahir celebrates taking a wicket |
The Proteas led by Francois du Plessis lost the toss and were
sent by Kane Williamson to bat first in a ground which holds terrible memories
in their hearts.
Hashim Amla set the tone for the Proteas with his sixth half
century in T20’s for South Africa. Despite being criticised in recent times for
his decline in form, the opener top scored with 62 runs off 43 balls to help
South Africa post 185/6 in their 20 overs. The 33-year-old opener with his soft
wrists scored 9 fours and 1 six.
Faf du Plessis (36), JP Duminy (29), and Ab de Villiers (26)
all performed well with the bat, while Trent Boult (2-8), and Colin de
Grandhomme (2-22) were outstanding with the ball for the hosts.
The Black Caps response got to the worst possible start, with
Chris Morris removing opener, Glen Phillips and Colin Munro. Despite the Proteas score being
described as small by the commentators, the Black Caps were bowled out for 107
in 14.5 overs
Imran Tahir justified
his No.1 ranking in limited overs (ODI, and T20’s) with match figures of 5-24.
The 37-year-old leg-spinner proved yet again that the more you age, the more
you perform.
Tahir claimed the wickets of Tom Bruce (33 runs off 27
balls), Colin de Grandhomme (15 runs off 7 balls), wicket-keeper, Luke Ronchi,
was removed scoreless, Ben Wheeler (6 runs off 6 balls), and Tim Southee (20
runs off 6 Balls).
Speaking to Supersport, Tahir described the five- wicket haul
as “a very special feeling.” By doing so he cemented his place as the no.1
ranked bowler in ODI’s and T20’s, and therefore putting himself in contention
for 2018 T20 World Cup squad selection.
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