West Indies win curtailed affair in Johannesburg to avoid series sweep against Proteas

South Africa's decision to field first and have an edge in a shortened affair against the West Indies didn't go according to plan as they lost the 3rd T20I by six runs (DLS) and lost the opportunity to inflict a 3-0 sweep.

After losing Johnson Charles in the very first over, skipper Shai Hope and Shimron Hetmyer added 86 runs in just 6.5 overs, biffing the ball to all parts of the Bull Ring to decimate South Africa's bowling attack. Hope led by example and scored 48 off just 25 deliveries with the help of three boundaries and four sixes at a scintillating strike rate of 192.

While Hope perished, Hetmyer carried on and remained unbeaten on 48 off just 22 balls, laced with a four and six maximums at an even better strike rate of 218.18. Hetmyer's power-packed finish helped the visitors post 114 in their 10 overs.

George Linde was the only South African bowler who looked in control as he conceded just nine runs in his two-over spell. Lungi Ngidi (1/19), Keshav Maharaj (1/38), and Kwena Maphaka (1/12) were the three South Africans to make their presence felt in the wickets column.

South Africa's DLS target was elevated to 125, and that proved to be the difference in the end. Player of the Series Quinton de Kock top-scored for the hosts with 28 off 14 balls, including four boundaries and a six, but couldn't kick on. Every South African batter got a start, barring Aiden Markram, but couldn't convert it into a big one. 

Allrounder Jason Smith showcased his worth and proved why he has been drafted into South Africa's World Cup squad. He struck a 10-ball 26 and threatened to take the away from West Indies' grasp, but was undone by Shamar Joseph in the end.

Left-arm orthodox bowler Gudakesh Motie was the pick of the West Indian bowlers, snaring a three-for by conceding 17 runs in two overs, accounting for de Kock, Ryan Rickelton, and Dewald Brevis. He was awarded the Player of the Match (POTM) for his magnificent spell.