South Africa defeat West Indies in highest-ever T20 run chase

South Africa set a new record for chasing in international T20 cricket when they scored 259 for four to beat West Indies by six wickets at Centurion on Sunday.

South Africa's Heinrich Klaasen (L) and South Africa's Aiden Markram (R) run between the wickets to make the winning run during the second T20 international cricket match between South Africa and West Indies at SuperSport Park in Centurion on March 26, 2023. Photo: AFP

Johnson Charles smashed a 39-ball century for the visitors as they posted an imposing 258 for five, the joint sixth-highest total in T20 internationals.

However, Quinton de Kock responded with 100 from 44 balls, a maiden T20 century, while fellow opener Reeza Hendricks hit 68.

West Indies' Johnson Charles (L) celebrates after scoring a century (100 runs) during the second T20 international cricket match between South Africa and West Indies at SuperSport Park in Centurion on March 26, 2023. Photo: AFP

Captain Aiden Markram (38) saw his side home with seven balls to spare.

The previous highest run chase was Bulgaria's 246 to beat Serbia in 2022 while Australia made 245 to beat New Zealand in 2018.