Cricket Highlights, July 14: Zimbabwe Twenty20 Tri-Series 2025 (1st Match) – ZIM vs SA

ZIM vs SA (1st Match) – Highlights

In a thrilling opener to the Zimbabwe Twenty20 Tri-Series held at Harare on July 14, 2025, SA edged out the hosts ZIM by 5 wickets with 25 balls to spare. The match showcased some exciting performances, particularly from South Africa’s young batting sensation Dewald Brevis, whose aggressive 41 off just 17 deliveries earned him the Player of the Match award. South Africa’s quick and efficient pursuit of 142 runs in under 16 overs proved too much for Zimbabwe’s 141-run total.

ZIM, batting first, had a shaky start as opener Wessly Madhevere was dismissed early after hitting his wicket for a solitary run. The pair of Brian Bennett and Sikandar Raza provided much-needed composure to the innings. Bennett played a steady 30 runs off 28 balls, hitting four boundaries, but was eventually dismissed by George Linde. Raza, leading the team as captain, was the backbone of Zimbabwe’s innings, smashing a solid 54 not out off 38 balls, including three fours and two sixes. His aggressive approach in the middle overs helped Zimbabwe reach a competitive total despite losing wickets at regular intervals.

The middle order also provided valuable contributions with Ryan Burl hitting a quick 29 off 20 balls, and Tashinga Musekiwa chipped in with 9. Zimbabwe’s innings hit quicksand as George Linde and the spin squad wrapped them in a web of precision. Linde’s spell was a silent assassin—three scalps in three overs with barely a whisper on the scoreboard. His stingy control and ability to take wickets when it was needed made him the Cricinfo MVP of the match.

Lungi Ngidi and Nandre Burger took crucial early wickets, helping South Africa’s disciplined bowling to dominate Zimbabwe. Ngidi dismissed the dangerous Madhevere early, and Burger chipped in with the wicket of Ryan Burl. Richard Ngarava was the pick of Zimbabwe’s bowlers, taking three wickets and keeping the South African batsmen on their toes with his pace and accuracy.

Chasing 142, South Africa got off to a poor start as Lhuan-dre Pretorius was dismissed without scoring in the very first over by Ngarava. The pressure was briefly mounting until Rubin Hermann and Dewald Brevis took charge. Hermann played a steady innings of 45 off 37 balls, finding the boundary five times and smashing a six. However, it was Brevis who stole the show with his electrifying batting display. His 41 runs came at a staggering strike rate of 241.17, including five towering sixes, which shifted the momentum decisively in South Africa’s favor.

Trevor Gwandu ended the innings of Captain Rassie van der Dussen after he had scored 16 runs. The finishing touches were added by Corbin Bosch, who remained unbeaten on 23 off 15 balls, and George Linde, who remained not out on 3 to see South Africa home comfortably. Their calm presence ensured the target was chased down in just 15.5 overs.

This victory was a confident start for SA in the tri-series, showcasing a blend of experienced players and emerging talent. Zimbabwe fought hard but were ultimately undone by some brilliant bowling and explosive batting from their opponents.

Zimbabwe vs South Africa Scoreboard

Zimbabwe – 141/6 (20)

South Africa – 142/5 (15.5)

Result – South Africa won by 5 wickets (with 25 balls remaining)

Player of the Match – Dewald Brevis

Dewald Brevis

ZIM vs SA Playing XIs

Disclaimer: These Match highlights reflect the author’s insights and analysis. Readers are encouraged to consider the points discussed and form their own conclusions.

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