King whips the Proteas

Brandon King scored an imperious half-century to inspire the West Indies to an impressive 28-run win over South Africa in their T20 International match at Sabina Park, Kingston, Jamaica, on Thursday.

The West Indies, who were asked to bat first, scored 175 for eight.

In reply, South Africa hobbled their way to 147 in 19.5 overs.

This is the biggest margin with which the West Indies have defeated South Africa in this format.

They lead the three-match series 1-0.

King, who has been away from the West Indies side due to injury, made a triumphant return to international cricket.

The 29-year-old smashed six fours and six sixes on his way to 79 off 45 deliveries for his 10th half-century in T20Is

The West Indies captain dominated the first six overs, turning everyone at Sabina Park, including South Africa’s fielders and his batting partners, into spectators as he registered a 26-ball half-century — his fastest half-ton in the format.

It was the King show as he scored 29 of the 36 runs in his opening stand with Johnson Charles and then 50 of the 79 runs in his second-wicket partnership with Kyle Mayers.

King’s approach allowed Mayers, who did not get a playing opportunity with his side, the Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL, time to settle down and collect his bearings.

At one point, Mayers had scored a pedestrian 10 runs from nine deliveries.

However, when he was dismissed 3.4 overs later, he had accelerated to a handy 34 off 25 balls.

The West Indies lost their way after both batters were dismissed.

They scored 40 runs in the next 6.3 overs. In that period, Roston Chase kept one end intact with a procession of wickets at the other.

He scored an unbeaten, fighting 32 off 30.

DEBUT TO REMEMBER

Ottniel Baartman made a splash on debut by becoming the fourth South African bowler to take three wickets on debut.

He bagged three wickets for 26 runs in his four overs. Those figures made him the visitors’ most successful bowler.

SUPERSPORT