Digicel Series 5th ODI: South Africa whitewash West Indies.

Match Review: It was a matter of pride for hosts Windies who played their 5th and final ODI against the Proteas at the Queen’s Park Oval in Port of Spain yesterday. They won the toss and elected to bat first. Unfortunately, the openers got off to a shaky start and once again failed to convert their innings into big scores. With a short score of 19 from 19 balls, Dale Richards was the first wicket to fall for the Windies. Captain Gayle disappointed by continuing his poor form and did not get the required start for his team. West Indies’ Mr. Dependable Shivanarine Chanderpaul got the momentum going and played a fine innings of 67 including 4 boundaries. While on the other hand, the batting order started to collapse one by one. Darren and Dwayne Bravo fell without being able to maintain partnerships with the well-settled Chanderpaul. A brilliant knock of 53 from 53 deliveries (3 fours, 1 six) by Narsingh Deonarine ensured that the Windies reach a defendable total. Kieron Pollard too, scored a quick 25 off 19 balls (1 four, 2 sixes) before he got out to Jacques Kallis.West Indies, thus achieving a total of 252 runs in 50 overs at the loss of 6 wickets and giving the Caribbean fans a reason to cheer for the home team.

Jacques Kallis

The Proteas came out to bat with a determined and positive mindset and that was well-reflected in their batting. Opener Hashim Amla got off to a flyer scoring 45 off 50 balls, which included 3 fours and a six. Skipper Graeme Smith’s bad patch continued and he fell for SA with just 12 runs in his kitty. South Africa’s savior Jacques Kallis played an excellent innings of 57 runs from 55 balls with 4 fours, which added to the already high-flying momentum of the Proteas. The Windies bowling seemed to prove futile in front of the set batsmen. But, later their hopes were revived as the middle order started to fall, except for JP Duminy who stood like a wall at the crease, playing for victory. Finally, with some contribution from the tail-enders, South Africa managed to sweep away the Caribbean storm and achieved what was their 3rd ODI series victory in the West Indies. Jacques Kallis was named “Man of the Match” for his 57 and 1 wicket, while Hashim Amla was named as the “Man of the Series” for his consistency in the series.

Graeme Smith certainly looked a happy captain after his team’s wonderful display of performance throughout the series, but his individual form is a cause of concern for him. He desperately needs to get back with his bat to lead the side by example.