South Africa “A” delivered a commanding performance to defeat West Indies “A” by an innings and 88 runs in the first four-day Unofficial Test at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground (DSCG) on Wednesday.
After winning the toss, South Africa “A” chose to field first, a decision that quickly paid dividends. The West Indies “A” batting lineup stumbled to 240 all out in their first innings. Tevin Imlach (61) and Mikyle Louis (57) provided brief resistance, while Khary Pierre (44) and John Campbell (33) offered modest contributions. However, South African pacers Okuhle Cele (5 for 43) and Tshepo Moreki (3 for 63) proved too strong, dismantling the hosts’ batting effort.
In reply, South Africa “A” put on a dominant batting display, racking up a colossal 600 for 7 declared. The innings was highlighted by a magnificent double century from Marques Ackerman, who amassed 208 runs. Support came from across the batting order, with Rivaldo Moonsamy (68), Prenelan Subrayen (64*), Jordan Hermann (52), and Sinethemba Qeshile (48) all making valuable contributions.
West Indies “A” bowlers toiled hard but found little success against the onslaught. Ojay Shield (2 for 90) and Ronaldo Alimohamed (2 for 88) were the most successful among the attack, though wickets came at a steep cost.
Facing a massive deficit of 360 runs, West Indies “A” resumed their second innings on the final day at 251 for six, needing 109 more runs to avoid an innings defeat. However, the resistance was short-lived, as they were bowled out for 272.
Despite determined knocks from Kevlon Anderson (52), Alick Athanaze (49), Ronaldo Alimohamed (40), Kavem Hodge (38), and Mikyle Louis (34), the hosts fell well short of making South Africa “A” bat again. Off-spinner Prenelan Subrayen led the bowling charge with figures of 5 for 82, while Tristan Luus claimed 4 for 86.
Match Summary:
- West Indies “A”: 240 & 272
- South Africa “A”: 600 for 7 declared
With this emphatic victory, South Africa “A” takes a 1–0 lead in the series. The second and final four-day Unofficial Test will take place from June 8 to 11 at the same venue, the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground.