The Proteas Women capped off a dominant tour of Zimbabwe with a 13-run victory in the fifth and final T20 International at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo, completing a historic 5–0 series clean sweep. South Africa were restricted to 164/6 after being sent in to bat, with Zimbabwe producing their most disciplined bowling and fielding performance of the series.
The Proteas slipped to 79/4 before Kayla Reyneke and Anneke Bosch steadied the innings with a crucial fifth-wicket partnership. Reyneke remained unbeaten on 34 from 31 deliveries, while Bosch contributed 33 from 27 balls, helping South Africa finish strongly and post a competitive total. Earlier, Miané Smit provided momentum at the top of the order with 30 from 22 balls, including three fours and a six.
Zimbabwe’s chase began positively, but the Proteas’ bowling attack continued to apply pressure. Nthabiseng Nini once again proved to be one of South Africa’s standout performers, finishing with 3/19. The young seamer continued an impressive debut series and made another decisive contribution with the ball. Ayanda Hlubi also claimed three wickets, finishing with 3/24.
The hosts ultimately reached 151/8 in their 20 overs, falling 13 runs short. Kelis Ndhlovu top-scored with 38 from 30 balls, while Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano added 29.
The victory completed a 5–0 series sweep, with the Proteas winning all five matches of the inaugural T20I series between the two nations. The tour also provided valuable international exposure for a youthful South African squad, with Nini among the uncapped players selected for the series. For Nini, the series has been particularly memorable. After taking a wicket with her first international delivery on debut in the opening T20I, she continued to make an impact throughout the series, finishing the final match with another three-wicket haul and player of the match award
Writer: Jabulile Mabena
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