A clinical performance by South Africa ensured their entry into the T20I tri-series final on Sunday, July 20, 2025. Powered by Rubin Hermann’s maiden T20I half-century and Rassie van der Dussen’s composed support, the seven-wicket win over Zimbabwe not only showcased South Africa’s depth but also confirmed their dominance in the tri-series.
With both South Africa and New Zealand moving ahead in the competition, the final league matches have been rendered inconsequential. For Zimbabwe, it was yet another disappointing outing, marking their third consecutive defeat in the series.
Dominant Batting Display by Rubin Hermann & Rassie van der Dussen
Rubin Hermann, who made his T20I debut earlier in the series, hammered a brilliant 63 off 36 balls, registering his maiden international fifty. His aggressive strokeplay eased the pressure after South Africa slipped to 22 for 2, chasing Zimbabwe’s modest total of 144.
Partnering with van der Dussen (52* off 45), Hermann shared a match-winning 106-run stand that nullified early hiccups and wrapped up the chase with 16 balls left. Notably, Hermann had also top-scored in his debut game, promising a solid future in the Proteas’ white-ball setup.
Zimbabwe’s Top-Order Struggles Continue
Batting first after losing the toss, the Zimbabwe team never truly found momentum. They recorded the lowest powerplay score (29/2) of the tournament so far. Brian Bennett remained the lone bright spot in their batting lineup, scoring a counter-attacking 61 off 43. Despite his valiant knock, the lack of support from others saw Zimbabwe manage only 144 for 6 from 20 overs.
Their middle overs improved slightly due to Bennett’s 78-run partnership with Ryan Burl (36*), but a lack of acceleration in the final overs hurt them again.
Corbin Bosch and Nandre Burger Turn Up the Heat
The African pace duo of Corbin Bosch and Nandre Burger delivered fiery spells upfront and at the death. Bosch picked up 2 for 16 from 4 overs, delivering with both new and old balls.
He dismissed both Wessly Madhevere and Clive Madande early to reduce Zimbabwe to 29/3. Later, with yorkers and discipline in the death overs, Bosch conceded just 13 runs in his final two overs. Burger kept things tight too, finishing with 1 for 20, including 15 dots.
Brian Bennett’s Lone Resistance with the Bat
Bennett’s innings saved Zimbabwe from a total collapse. Coming in when Zimbabwe was struggling in the powerplay, he took charge with creative strokeplay. A mix of power and placement, his knock included multiple boundaries off George Linde and Nqaba Peter.
His half-century came off 38 balls and featured a range of shots—from compact cuts to improvised ramps. Unfortunately, a clever yorker from Ngidi in the 16th over bowled him out at a crucial time.
Tinotenda Maposa’s Early Strikes Provided Hope
With Zimbabwe missing Blessing Muzarabani, youngster Tinotenda Maposa made the most of the new ball. He removed the dangerous Lhuan-dre Pretorius in the second over and followed up with another scalp of Reeza Hendricks in the powerplay.
His bounce and aggression troubled the South African top order. He even returned later to take the wicket of Hermann, but by then, the match was virtually sealed.
Proteas Confirm Final Spot in Style
This dominant win not only gave South Africa their second consecutive victory in the tri-series but also confirmed their place in the final along with New Zealand—both now sitting on four points. Zimbabwe, on the other hand, remain winless and out of contention.
Though two more group-stage matches remain, they are now dead rubbers. South Africa can use this opportunity to rotate players and test combinations ahead of the final.
Hermann’s Composure Wins Applause
After a promising debut, Hermann’s second successive performance has earned praise from the South African camp. His confidence at the crease, especially against Zimbabwe’s spin-heavy middle overs, stood out. His timing and intent made the chase appear effortless.
Partnered with van der Dussen’s serene batting, Hermann helped orchestrate a victory with maturity that belied his experience.
Final Scorecard Snapshot
Zimbabwe: 144/6 (20 overs)
- Brian Bennett – 61 (43)
- Ryan Burl – 36* (31)
- Corbin Bosch – 2/16 (4 overs)
South Africa: 145/3 (17.2 overs)
- Rubin Hermann – 63 (36)
- Rassie van der Dussen – 52* (45)
- Tinotenda Maposa – 2/38 (4 overs)
What’s Next
With the group stage wrapping up soon, South Africa will now shift focus to the tri-series final, likely against New Zealand. For Zimbabwe, it’s a process of regrouping, especially ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup qualifiers later this year.
Photo Credit: Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/proteasmencsa/?hl=en
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