Yaseen Valli’s maiden century set up a victory for SA Emerging as they sealed their one-day series match against Zimbabwe A with a 15-run win to take a 2-0 lead.
The 22-year-old struck an unbeaten 133 (143 balls, 10 fours) to lead his side to an imposing 330-4 after winning the toss and batting at the Harare Sports Club.
The hosts, who were hammered by six wickets in the first encounter, put up a much better fight in match two, but were eventually dismissed for 315 with eight deliveries still remaining.
It means the South Africans have now taken an unassailable 2-0 lead, with the final match to come at the same venue on Sunday.
It was another strong performance from the young travelling team, who were led by Valli carrying his bat.
The young opener received excellent support from opening partner Janneman Malan (56), Senuran Muthusamy (53) and Matthew Christensen, who blasted 48 in just 21 balls at the death.
There were three half-centurions for the home side – their captain Peter Moor (75), Tinotenda Mutombodzi (63) and Kevin Kasuza (60). However, an outstanding return of three for 38 in 10 overs by Kyle Simmonds was a key difference between the sides.
Captain Wihan Lubbe (3-56) and Migael Pretorius (2-43) were also among the wickets as the South Africans sealed the series.
Powerade SA National Academy Men’s Squad: Wihan Lubbe (captain, North West), Karabo Mogotsi (Gauteng) Yaseen Vallie (Gauteng), Tony de Zorzi (Northerns), Janneman Malan (North West), Senuran Muthusamy (KZN), Isaac Digale (North West), Michael Cohen (WP), Lwandiswa Zuma (KZN), Tladi Bokako (EP), Okuhle Cele (KZN), Migael Pretorius (Northerns), Kyle Simmonds (Boland), Thomas Kaber (Northerns), Kyle Verrynne (WP), Matthew Christensen (EP).
Management team: Malibongwe Maketa (Head Coach), Shane Burger (Assistant Coach), Nandile Tyali (Fitness Trainer), Michael Gwilliams (Physio), Hendrikus Coertzen (Video Analyst).
Photo: Pal Pillai-IDI/IDI via Getty Images
