Gayle’s 60 pales against Levi, de Villiers

SHARJAH, United Arab Emirates (CMC):

Richard Levi and AB de Villiers both struck half-centuries as South Africa Champions thrashed West Indies Legends by 97 runs when the World Championship of Legends continued on Sunday.

Levi hammered a blistering 87 off just 39 balls, including eight sixes and five fours, while de Villiers blasted 70 off 39 deliveries, with five sixes and four fours, to propel the Proteas to a formidable 242 for five from their 20 overs at Sharjah Cricket Stadium.

The pair added 104 runs for the second wicket in just seven overs after the early loss of Faf du Plessis, carrying South Africa to a commanding 135 for one in the 11th over.

Dave Mohammed was the pick of the West Indies bowlers with figures of 2-29.

In reply, Chris Gayle struck 60 off 31 balls at the top of the order but received little support as West Indies were dismissed for 145 in 18.2 overs.

Carlos Brathwaite, who made 29 from 13 balls, and Rayad Emrit, who finished unbeaten on 14, were the only other batters to reach double figures.

The West Indies innings was undermined by spinner Imran Tahir, who claimed 3-24, and Aaron Phangiso, who took 3-49, while Robert Frylinck chipped in with 2-22.