South Africa v West Indies 2007-08

Herschelle Gibbs was at his imperious best in despatching the hapless tourists to the most depressing of their five defeats in this series. The West Indian total looked impressive, but the pitch and outfield were of a similar quality to those in the world record match here two years previously, when South Africa successfully chased Australia's 434. There was a strong sense that this total was at least 50 short of par, despite a stunning 91 from 76 balls from Devon Smith. Chanderpaul didn't help the cause by using up 76 balls for his 51. A typical highveld afternoon thundershower reduced the target to 211 in 31 overs - but, whereas a requirement of seven an over is daunting at most venues in the world, the Wanderers is different. Gibbs tore into Sammy and Bravo - both went for more than ten an over - and reached 102, his 20th one-day international century, from just 83 balls before popping up a simple catch to cover. There were some who mischievously suggested he did it on purpose, to allow an adoring nation one last glimpse of Pollock, in his final match. He duly appeared at No. 4 and, for the second match in a row, struck the winning runs to produce unbridled, delirious cheering in the crowd. He had bitten his lip with great success during an emotionally exhausting fortnight, but now Pollock shed more than a few tears as he bade farewell for the last time.