Tarouba: Nicholas Pooran delivered a scintillating performance, smashing four consecutive sixes, as the West Indies clinched a seven-wicket victory over South Africa in their T20 international at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy Stadium on Friday.

The match, the first in a three-match series, had been interrupted by a heavy downpour that delayed the start by over an hour. When play resumed, the West Indies made a strong start by restricting South Africa to a modest 174-7 from their 20 overs, with Tristan Stubbs and Patrick Kruger leading the recovery.

Despite a challenging target, the West Indies' response was swift and assured. Openers Alick Athanaze and Shai Hope laid a solid foundation with an 84-run stand before Pooran took centre stage. His explosive innings, featuring four sixes in a row off Burger in the 12th over, ensured the home side reached their target with 13 balls to spare.

The match showcased the promising talent of South Africa's youngest international debutant, Kwena Maphaka, who took the wicket of Rovman Powell. However, the day belonged to Pooran, whose power-hitting proved decisive. 

Looking ahead, West Indies' captain Powell emphasised the need to focus on immediate goals rather than the distant 2026 World Cup. The second game of the series will be held at the same venue on Sunday.

With AFP inputs