WINDHOEK : Lhuan-dre Pretorius smashed his maiden Twenty20 International century as South Africa ended Namibia’s recent dominance over their neighbours with an 11-run victory in their Tri-Series clash in Windhoek on Friday.
Pretorius struck 101 from 53 balls as South Africa posted 228 for four after being sent in to bat, securing their place in the final against Zimbabwe.
Namibia had won their previous two T20 meetings with South Africa, although both victories came against depleted teams. They looked capable of extending that run after making a strong start in their chase but finished on 217 for three from their 20 overs.
Pretorius and Connor Esterhuizen set up South Africa’s imposing total with a blistering 156-run opening partnership from 69 balls. Esterhuizen smashed 88 from 40 deliveries, with both batters hitting eight sixes on a flat pitch.
Namibia spinner Jan Balt was the only bowler to emerge with relatively modest figures, taking two wickets for 31 runs from his four overs.
The hosts also made a flying start to their reply, with Jan Frylinck hitting 72 from 36 balls and Louren Steenkamp contributing 61 from 44 as they put on 119 for the opening wicket from 65 deliveries.
But Namibia’s momentum faded in the closing stages, with Steenkamp retiring hurt at the end of the 16th over after being struck on the head and later on the arm in separate incidents.
South Africa will face Zimbabwe in the Tri-Series final at the same venue on Sunday.
