JP Duminy hit 96 not out, the highest score by a South African in a Twenty20 international, and it proved just enough to secure a 2-0 series victory against Zimbabwe at the Diamond Oval.
Duminy propelled South Africa to an imposing 6-194 in 20 overs but Zimbabwe made a spirited reply before losing by eight runs.
Brendan Taylor and Chamu Chibhabha both hit 59 as Zimbabwe raced to 1-122 with seven overs remaining.
In the end it was Duminy's late assault that made the difference. The left-hander made his runs off 54 balls, with his last 46 scored off just 17 deliveries, as South Africa scored 67 off the last five overs of their innings.
It was a closing rate Zimbabwe could not match as five batsmen fell to catches off attempted big hits and captain Elton Chigumbura was run out attempting an improbable second run in the penultimate over.
Zimbabwe's total of 7-186 was their highest in a Twenty20 international and Chigumbura said he was happy with his side's improved showing after they went down by seven wickets with 25 balls remaining in the first match in Bloemfontein on Friday.
"It was a much better performance, especially with the ball," said Chigumbura,
"but the last three overs went for many (runs). Overall I'm happy."
Johan Botha, South Africa's newly-appointed Twenty20 captain, gave credit to Zimbabwe for making the match so close.
"They played excellently in the chase," he said.
Coppied by http://www.foxsports.com.au/cricket/proteas-batsman-jp-duminy-hits-the-highest-ever-individual-twenty20-score-for-a-south-african/story-e6frf3g3-1225936931241
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