Meet The Caribbean Born Man A Malaysian Tycoon’s Daughter Gave Up US$ Millions For

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Jedidiah Francis, or “Jed,” as he is affectionately called, was born in St. Vincent & the Grenadines. (Linked In Image)

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY: The love of her Caribbean man – Jedidiah Francis  is worth more than the US $407 million she was set to inherit as the daughter of one of Malaysia’s richest men.

So who is the man that 34-year-old Angeline Francis Khoo is giving up all that money for while cutting ties with her father, Tan Sri Khoo Kay Peng, chairman of fashion and lifestyle company, Laura Ashley?

News Americas Now has found he was born in St. Vincent and the Grenadines and is the holder of a DPhil degree in Statistics from Oxford University.

Jedidiah Francis, or “Jed,” as he is affectionately called, attended the St Mary’s RC School in Kingstown, and completed his secondary education at the St Vincent Grammar School.

Francis back in 2006. (Search Light ad/image)

According to a 2006 ad in the Searchlight by his family, he graduated from the St Vincent Community College as one of two ‘Students of the Year’ in 2000, receiving awards for being the best Biology and Mathematics student.”

In his search for opportunities for higher education, he joined the British army in February 2001 and was trained as a soldier and then as an Electronic Engineer. In July 2002 he received an honorable discharge from the army to pursue his personal academic goals.

Having received acceptance from Queen Mary University of London, Francis was granted a NCB scholarship to read for a BSc degree in Biology with Business Management in 2003, and graduated with first class honors in July 2006.

His interest in mathematics and biology converged in his BSc dissertation, where he developed a statistical model to describe the proliferation of transposons or “jumping genes” in mosquito populations.

His work on modeling jumping genes gained him entry into Oxford University where he worked alongside leading researchers to develop statistical models of HIV genetic evolution.

Asked about his motivation and drive in 2006, Francis ascribed all his success to the faithfulness of God, and highlighted the input of his parents, Mr & Mrs Eli and Vienna Francis and family.

Jedidiah Francis, 3rd from r, as part of a tech panel in April 2017. (Twitter image)

At the time, his family also acknowledged the financial support of the Marriaqua Friendly Society (Bun Pan) during his Secondary School and A-level years, the National Commercial Bank for providing the finances to complete his BSc degree, and Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves and the Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines for their sterling support.

Francis reportedly met Khoo at Oxford. After her father expressed disapproval of the man she wanted to marry, she severed ties with him and married him anyway.

“I believed Dad’s stance was wrong, so there was no question about what was right,” she told the Daily Mail.

The couple now live in London. Francis, according to his Linked In profile is head of data science at online fashion retailer, ASOS.com. He lists his specialties as: Statistical Modelling, Probabilistic modelling, Computational Statistics, Data Analysis, Machine learning algorithms and data mining among others.

Guyanese Bank Manager Sentenced For Murder-for-Hire Plot

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News Americas, New York, NY, Mon. Sept. 2, 2024: A Guyanese-born, New York-based bank manager was sentenced last week to 9.5 years in prison for orchestrating a failed murder-for-hire plot against her brother-in-law. Reshma Massarone, a 40-year-old branch manager at Mid-Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union, allegedly told the intended hitman that “rat poison can do a great job,” according to court documents.

Reshma Massarone, a 40-year-old branch manager at Mid-Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union, allegedly told the intended hitman that “rat poison can do a great job,” according to court documents.

Massarone plotted the murder between July and August 2023, communicating with the would-be assassin over Facebook Messenger. She was caught on security footage wiring a $2,500 down payment at a Western Union kiosk inside a Walgreens. Her plan was to have the hit carried out while her brother-in-law was traveling in Guyana. However, the individual she approached was a longtime friend and a Guyanese police officer, who went undercover to expose the plot. Massarone ultimately pled guilty to murder-for-hire and was sentenced on August 27.

In one message, Massarone urged the supposed hitman to act, writing, “You take care of business and you be a rich man.” In another, she warned, “either way, if I find somebody to do the job, you’re going to get blamed, so cut the bulls**t and let’s get it done.”

The plan began to unravel when the would-be hitman contacted the victim and his wife, leading them to report the threat to the U.S. Embassy in Guyana. The undercover officer also recorded a conversation in which Massarone insisted that the murder should appear as a robbery, with the recording later used as evidence in court.

In a presentencing submission, Massarone’s attorney argued that she acted “completely out of character” due to a “state of rage,” claiming her actions were provoked by her brother-in-law’s “twenty-five-year systemic harassment.” The defense claimed that the victim had relentlessly targeted Massarone after being denied the chance to marry her when she was 15, instead marrying her then-16-year-old sister.

Massarone’s attorney described a long history of harassment, including attempts to sabotage her career and personal life. Despite orders of protection and other measures, the victim allegedly continued his efforts to undermine her.

Massarone had previously sued two banks for racial discrimination during her employment, but both cases were dismissed.

Brooklyn’s West Indian American Day Carnival Marred By Gunfire

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News Americas, BROOKLYN, NY, Mon. Sept. 2, 2024: The West Indian American Day carnival parade got off to a great start today until a lone gunman walked up to the crowd and started shooting this afternoon, New York police said.

A woman takes part in 2024 West Indian Day Parade on September 02, 2024 in Brooklyn, NY. (Photo by Michael Loccisano/Getty Images)

The shooting marred an otherwise peaceful J’Ouvert and Parade celebration, the 57th annual carnival of Caribbean culture in Brooklyn, and one of the biggest parades in the world.

Revellers at the 2024 West Indian Day Parade along the Eastern Parkway in Brooklyn, NY, on September 2, 2024. (Photo by Michael Loccisano/Getty Images)

Five people were shot on Eastern Parkway near Franklin Avenue in Crown Heights around 2:45 p.m. EST according to the NYPD. In a news conference, police said 4 males and 1 female were stuck by the gunfire. Police said 2 of the victims are in critical condition and 3 have non-life-threatening injuries.

A man takes part in the 2024 West Indian Day Parade along the Eastern Parkway in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. (Photo by Michael Loccisano/Getty Images)

At least one person is still being sought. The suspect is described as a male 6’2″ to 6’3″ slim build. wearing a bandana, brown shirt, who fled Westbound on Eastern Parkway towards Classon Avenue, police said.

A man takes part in the 2024 West Indian Day Parade along the Eastern Parkway on September 2, 2024 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. (Photo by Michael Loccisano/Getty Images)

Police are asking the public to come forward with any video of the incident that may be helpful to their investigation.

Caribbean women take part in the 2024 West Indian Day Parade along the Eastern Parkway on September 2, 2024 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. (Photo by Michael Loccisano/Getty Images)

“This was an intentional act by one person toward a group of people,” NYPD Chief of Patrol John Chell said. “We do not by no means have any active shooter, or anything of that nature, running around Eastern Parkway as we speak.”

A young child attends the 2024 West Indian Day Parade along the Eastern Parkway on September 2, 2024 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. (Photo by Michael Loccisano/Getty Images)

The carnival is presented annually by the West Indian American Day Carnival Association, (WIADCA).

CARIBBEAN CARNIVAL IN NEW YORK

The roots of Caribbean Carnival in New York City can be traced back to the 1930s when Ms. Jessie Wardell and some of her West Indian friends initiated the celebration in Harlem. Due to the cold February weather, they hosted costume parties in large indoor venues like the Savoy, Renaissance, and Audubon Ballrooms. This timing aligned with the traditional pre-Lenten festivities celebrated in many countries worldwide. However, the indoor setting limited the true spirit of Carnival, which thrives on outdoor parades with music and vibrant costumes.

The first known Carnival street activity in NYC occurred in the 1940s when Ms. Wardell secured a permit for a parade in Harlem. In the 1960s, another Trinidadian, Rufus Goring, brought the Carnival tradition to Brooklyn. By 1967, Goring passed the leadership to Carlos Lezama, who became the president of the West Indian American Day Carnival Association (WIADCA). Lezama nurtured the organization and the Carnival until 2001, when he retired due to ill health, and his daughter, Yolanda Lezama-Clark, took over as president until 2011. In 2012, Thomas Bailey was elected president. All of these key figures spent their early years in Trinidad & Tobago.

The Caribbean’s Winning Formula: How Olympic Glory And Tech Are Shaping A New Era In Sports

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Tues. Sept. 3, 2024: The Caribbean had an excellent 2024 Paris Olympic Games this summer. The nations that represented the region managed to get on the board with several wins, with six gold medals between them, having been earned a total of 25 medals.

St Lucia’s Julien Alfred celebrates after winning the women’s 100m final of the athletics event at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games at Stade de France in Saint-Denis, north of Paris, on August 3, 2024. (Photo by Martin BERNETTI / AFP) (Photo by MARTIN BERNETTI/AFP via Getty Images)

Stories and history-setting moments were created, with St Lucia’s Julien Alfred winning her country’s first Olympic medal ever by upsetting America’s Sha’carri Richardson in the 100-meter sprint. She continued her impressive Games by landing a silver medal in the 200-meter race.

It wasn’t just her, as Thea LaFond managed to land Dominica’s first-ever medal at the Games, too. She beat out the competition in the triple jump event. Marileidy Paulino won gold for the Dominican Republic to get their first-ever gold at the Games by winning the 400-meter race, while Grenada managed to secure two bronze medals.

Jamaica has always been the region’s flag-bearer, which is why there are usually many expectations on their shoulders, especially by those who bet with Betway on the Games. For those interested in exploring betting options and staying updated on upcoming events, more information can be found on their official website or app. But with the smaller Caribbean nations starting to show promise, there may be more interest in these nations when the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics takes place.

How did each nation do?

Final Leaderboard based on Gold Medal Count

32. Cuba – 2 Gold, 1 Silver, 6 Bronze – 9 Total

44. Jamaica – 1 Gold, 3 Silver, 2 Bronze – 6 Total

55. Saint Lucia – 1 Gold, 1 Silver – 2 Total

59. Dominican Republic – 1 Gold, 2 Bronze – 3 Total

62. Dominica – 1 Gold – 1 Total

80. Grenada – 2 Bronze – 2 Total

80. Puerto Rico – 2 Bronze – 2 Total

Why have the Caribbean nations had a successful Olympics?

While there is no doubt that athletes are getting better and their success in Paris is likely to inspire new generations of competitors in the future, technology has played a vital role in helping to shape sport across many factors.

New technologies have been made available that have helped athletes with their training. Alfred and LaFond will have been able to use various forms of tech to enable them to perfect their performances. They will have been able to use footage to analyze certain aspects of their technique, use data to help them understand where they can be efficient, and watch what other competitors are doing to identify any potential weaknesses they can capitalize on.

Sport has only evolved in a physical capacity. Tech has revolutionized the way fans enjoy it. Viewing experiences have been altered as technology has allowed them to obtain better experiences. Fans can watch their favorite athletes compete in new ways, with tech even transforming the way they can bet on them, with operators like Betway providing enhanced odds and live streams that can be watched when the events are taking place.

A new era of sports for the Caribbean

With technological advancements, it’s possible to argue that Caribbean sports are entering a new era. The success witnessed in Paris will only fuel excitement and inspire their communities, but the availability of tech will give individuals the tools to potentially achieve sporting success themselves.

Caribbean Music Awards 2024 – In Photos

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News Americas, New York, NY, August 31, 2024: The second Caribbean Music Awards took place on August 29, 2024, at Kings Theatre in Brooklyn, bringing together celebrities and fans from across the Caribbean. The event, hosted by Spice and Majah Hype, featured performances by Trinidad’s Ravi B, Barbados’ Leadpipe x Jus-Jay King, and Skinny Fabulous from St. Vincent & The Grenadines.

Skinny Fabulous emerged as the night’s big winner, taking home three awards, including Male Soca Artist of the Year and two for his hit collaboration with Trinidad’s Nailah Blackman, “Come Home.” In his acceptance speech, he expressed gratitude and pride in representing his small island, stating, “I believe in myself, I believe in Soca music, I believe in the people.”

Other notable winners included Shaggy, Patrice Roberts, Asa Banton, and Dexta Daps, who entertained the crowd with his performance and a humorous stint as a co-presenter.

Honorees for the evening included Ravi B, Alison Hinds, Cedella Marley, Marcia Griffiths, Sherwin Gardner, and the legendary Mighty Sparrow.

Presenters added to the excitement, with DJ Cassidy making an appearance fresh from spinning at the DNC. He joined Melyssa Ford on stage, along with other presenters like Spragga Benz, Angela Yee, and Wyclef Jean.

Check out some of the stars who attended.

Spice attends the 2024 Caribbean Music Awards at Kings Theatre on August 29, 2024 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Marleen Moise/Getty Images)

DJ Cassidy attends the 2024 Caribbean Music Awards at Kings Theatre on August 29, 2024 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/WireImage)

The Mighty Sparrow attends the 2024 Caribbean Music Awards at Kings Theatre on August 29, 2024 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Marleen Moise/Getty Images)

Marcia Griffiths attends the 2024 Caribbean Music Awards at Kings Theatre on August 29, 2024 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Marleen Moise/Getty Images)

Nailah Blackman attends the 2024 Caribbean Music Awards at Kings Theatre on August 29, 2024 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Marleen Moise/Getty Images)

Alaine attends the 2024 Caribbean Music Awards at Kings Theatre on August 29, 2024 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Marleen Moise/Getty Images)

Skinny Fabulous attends the 2024 Caribbean Music Awards at Kings Theatre on August 29, 2024 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Marleen Moise/Getty Images)

Hilton Announces First Two Hotels In Guyana

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News Americas, New York, NY, August 29, 2024: Hilton, the global luxury hotel brand, has announced plans to construct its first two hotels in Guyana, marking a significant expansion into the oil rich South American CARICOM nation. The new developments, Hilton Georgetown and DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Georgetown, will both be located in the country’s capital, Georgetown.

Hilton will soon have two hotels in Guyana.

According to the company, these two hotels will be part of a larger oceanfront, mixed-use business and entertainment complex, offering a combined total of over 400 rooms. The project will be owned by an affiliate of the Assets Group and managed by Hilton.

This announcement comes nearly four years after a private company initially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Guyanese government to build two Hilton-branded hotels. However, that project never advanced, and now Hilton has decided to take the reins directly.

“We believe in investing in Guyana, a country poised for significant growth and a promising future in tourism and hospitality,” said Moutaz Al Khayyat, Chairman of Assets Group. He highlighted the company’s commitment to entering emerging markets with high potential and expressed confidence in Guyana’s economic trajectory.

The 11-story Hilton Georgetown will feature 253 guest rooms and suites, providing an elevated stay experience, while the DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Georgetown will offer 158 contemporary suites.

“We are proud to bring the flagship Hilton Hotels & Resorts brand, which continues to set the standard for travel, and the renowned DoubleTree by Hilton tradition of warm welcomes and upscale comfort to Guyana,” said Gary Steffen, Global Category Head for Full-Service Brands at Hilton. He added that the company is eager to introduce its iconic hospitality to the Guyanese market through these two award-winning brands.

Hilton emphasized that these new properties will underscore its commitment to delivering premium, luxurious experiences that cater to the discerning needs of its guests.

Beres Hammond Celebrates Birthday With “Let Me Help You”

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News Americas, New York, NY, August 29, 2024: Celebrating his 69th birthday in style on August 28th, veteran reggae artist Beres Hammond has released a visualizer for his latest single, “Let Me Help You.”

Jamaican iconic reggae singer Beres Hammond has dropped a new video.

The visualizer, shot and edited by SAMO, enhances the soulful track with a compelling visual narrative, featuring cameos from notable figures like Machel Montano, Sevana, D’Yani, and others. Interspersed with concert footage and personal photos, the video offers a glimpse into Beres’ remarkable journey in music.

“Let Me Help You” is a re-recording of his 1988 hidden gem, “Let Me Help You Smile Again,” and was released on May 3rd via Harmony House / VP Records. As with the original, Beres himself produced, arranged, wrote, and performed the new version. This track is a rarity in his extensive catalog, as it joins only a few songs that he has re-recorded over his illustrious five-decade career.

The decision to revisit the track was sparked by a conversation about its lyrics during a call to his office. When Beres discovered that the original master recording was lost, he chose to redo the song, enlisting longtime drummer and collaborator Kirk “Kirkledove” Bennett, who assembled a talented team of musicians, including legendary horn player Dean Fraser. The 2024 version of the song replaces the digital elements of the original with live instrumentation, giving the classic a fresh, vibrant sound.

Upon its release, “Let Me Help You” received significant attention, even earning a spot on Spotify’s New Music Friday billboards in New York City’s Times Square and Toronto’s Yonge-Dundas Square—an honor typically reserved for album releases rather than singles.

Beres announced the single during his annual Love and Harmony Cruise in April, where he performed an all-white concert at sea. Following this, he embarked on an extensive North American tour, visiting cities like New York, Toronto, Miami, and Los Angeles, where he delighted fans with his timeless hits and soulful performances.

Catch it here

Caribbean Roots Tennis Star Completes First Major Win In four Year

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News Americas, New York, NY, August 28, 2024: Caribbean heritage tennis star Naomi Osaka is back at the US Open, securing her first major win in more than four years by defeating top-10 player Jelena Ostapenko of Latvia. After openly discussing the mental health challenges she faced since returning from maternity leave, Osaka rediscovered her form with a commanding first-round victory.

Caribbean heritage tennis star, Naomi Osaka reacts to defeating Jelena Ostapenko of Latvia in the first round on Day 2 of the US Open at USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center on August 27, 2024 in New York City (Photo by Robert Prange/Getty Images)

The Japanese-Haitian star also made a fashion statement during her match at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing, Queens. Dressed in a custom Nike outfit featuring a green ruffled skirt with a white bow tied around her waist, the four-time Grand Slam champion showcased resilience far beyond her wardrobe. Despite a challenging season, Osaka proved she wasn’t giving up easily.

Naomi Osaka of Japan appears to cry after beating Jelena Ostapenko of Latvia in a U.S. Open women’s singles first-round tennis match in New York on Aug. 27, 2024. (Photo by Kyodo News via Getty Images)

In front of a packed crowd at Louis Armstrong Stadium on August 27, Osaka exuded positivity and determination as she took down her Latvian opponent—also a Grand Slam champion—who had 11 more match wins than Osaka this year.

Fighting back tears, Osaka spoke emotionally after the match, moved by the audience’s standing ovation. “I so badly wanted to step on these courts again,” she shared. “I didn’t know if I could. … Just to win this match, just to be in this atmosphere, means so much to me.”

Osaka’s performance was remarkable, making no unforced errors in the first set and finishing the match with only five, 16 fewer than Ostapenko. Reflecting on her victory, she added with a smile, “I do remember thinking, ‘I need to win this match so I can wear my other color.’ That was very important to me. I guess you’ll see my other color next time.”

Ranked 88th in the world, Osaka had earned a wild card spot in the women’s singles main draw after not qualifying directly. She entered the tournament with an 18-15 record, following her most recent loss in the qualifying rounds of the Cincinnati Open. On Instagram, she candidly discussed the mental struggles she faced since giving birth to her first child, baby Shai, in July 2023.

“I don’t feel like I’m in my body,” Osaka wrote, before signing off with a promise to give it her best as she headed for New York. So far, her hard work appears to be paying off.

Osaka will next face 2023 French Open runner-up Karolina Muchova, who advanced with a 6-3, 7-5 win against Katie Volynets of the U.S.

Osaka and her boyfriend, rapper Cordae, welcomed baby Shai in July 2023. Speaking to Vogue earlier, Osaka shared her excitement about becoming a mother. “Everyone I know that has had a kid, it has changed their life,” she said. “I don’t think I can prepare for it. I think I’m gonna have to go with the flow.”

Julian Marley & Antaeus Submit ‘Jah Sees Them – Amapiano Remix’ for Grammy® Consideration

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Tues. Aug. 27, 2024: Julian Marley, the son of legendary reggae icon Bob Marley, and Grammy-winning artist/producer Antaeus are once again making waves in the music industry with their submission for the 67th Grammy® Awards.

Following their recent Grammy® win for Best Reggae Album with Colors of Royal at the 66th Grammy® Awards, Julian and Antaeus are now eyeing a new category: Best Remixed Recording in the Pop & Dance/Electronic field. With eligibility for the 2025 Grammy® Awards running from September 2023 to August 2024, Julian Marley’s remix is already generating buzz among fans and critics alike.

The Grammy® timeline includes First Round Voting from October 4 to 15, the Nominations Announcement on November 8, Final Round Voting from December 12, 2024, to January 3, 2025, culminating in the awards ceremony on February 2, 2025.

Their latest release, “Jah Sees Them – Amapiano Remix,” is a high-energy club track that brilliantly fuses Julian’s signature reggae sound with the infectious rhythms of South Africa’s Amapiano genre. Produced by UK DJ Footsteps, MrMyish, and Antaeus, the remix showcases a dynamic blend of cultures and genres. The track, out now via Monom Records and distributed by The Orchard/Sony, features mixing and mastering by Grammy®-winning engineers Joe Maldonado and Alex Psaroudakis.

Julian Marley expressed his passion for the project, stating: “The Jah Sees Them Amapiano Remix represents my deep love for music beyond reggae. It’s a powerful fusion that bridges cultures and genres, reflecting my belief that music has no boundaries.” Antaeus echoed this sentiment, adding, “This remix embodies our dedication to creating timeless music that resonates across generations and transcends borders.”

The official video for the remix has just premiered on Monom’s YouTube channel, directed by Damaniac Visualz. Shot in iconic Jamaican locations like Kingston, Wickie Wackie Beach, and Port Antonio, the video captures the vibrant energy of the track, featuring stunning Caribbean scenery, bonfires, and captivating performances.

Fresh off a successful European tour, Julian will also join The Marley Brothers on their Legacy US Tour, beginning September 5.

Julian Marley continues to make his mark on the global music scene, following in the footsteps of his father, while Antaeus, with his diverse and acclaimed work, solidifies his role as a visionary force in the industry.

Preview here

West Indies Win Over South Africa

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Sun. August 25, 2024: Led by superb bowling performances from Romario Shepherd and Shamar Joseph, the West Indies pulled off a stunning 30-run victory against South Africa, securing the three-match T20 series with a game to spare.

Romario Shepherd (L) of West Indies celebrates the dismissal of Reeza Hendricks of South Africa during the 2nd T20i match between West Indies and South Africa at Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Tarouba, Trinidad and Tobago, on August 25, 2024. (Photo by Randy Brooks / AFP) (Photo by RANDY BROOKS/AFP via Getty Images)

After being sent in to bat, West Indies posted a competitive total of 179 for six in their 20 overs at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy on Sunday.

Ottniel Baartman (L) of South Africa congratulates Matthew Forde (R) of West Indies for winning the 2nd T20i match between West Indies and South Africa at Brian Lara Cricket Academy Stadium in Tarouba, San Fernando, Trinidad and Tobago, on August 25, 2024. (Photo by Randy Brooks / AFP) (Photo by RANDY BROOKS/AFP via Getty Images)

Man-of-the-Match Shepherd and Joseph then spearheaded a middle-order collapse, taking six wickets between them, as South Africa was bowled out for 149 with just two balls remaining in the match.

This win gave the home side an unassailable 2-0 series lead, following their seven-wicket victory in the opening T20 on Friday.

Despite the eventual outcome, South Africa seemed poised to level the series after a strong start to their run chase. Openers Ryan Rickelton (20) and Reeza Hendricks, who top-scored with 44 off just 18 balls, powered South Africa to 63 in under five overs. Hendricks was especially dominant, hammering off-spinner Roston Chase for two sixes and two fours in an over that yielded 23 runs.

However, Joseph made the breakthrough by having Rickelton caught at deep backward square by Matthew Forde, attempting a pull shot. Shepherd then claimed the crucial wicket of Hendricks, who had struck six fours and two sixes, as the batter dragged a wide ball onto his stumps, leaving South Africa at 71-2 in the sixth over.

Even after Shepherd trapped South African captain Aiden Markram lbw for 19, the visitors appeared in control with Tristan Stubbs and Rassie van der Dussen adding 43 runs, taking their total to 129-3 after 14 overs.

But in a dramatic collapse, South Africa lost their final seven wickets for just 20 runs. Stubbs was caught at long-off by substitute fielder Fabian Allen for 28 off spinner Akeal Hosein, and five runs later, Donovan Ferreira was stumped off the bowling of Gudakesh Motie, reducing South Africa to 134 for five.

Hosein also took the wicket of van der Dussen (17), and when Bjorn Fortuin was bowled by Joseph, the visitors had tumbled to 144 for seven in the 17th over. Shepherd returned to claim his third wicket, with Patrick Kruger caught on the cover boundary by Shai Hope, and Joseph and Forde finished off the tail to seal the win.

Shepherd ended with outstanding figures of 3-15 from his four overs, while Joseph achieved his best-ever T20 figures of 3-31 from his four overs. Hosein contributed with 2-25.

Earlier, after losing the toss and being asked to bat on a flat, dry pitch, the West Indies got off to a steady start with openers Alick Athanaze and Hope putting on 41 runs together. Athanaze became the first of three wickets for South African bowler Lizaad Williams when he was caught at midwicket for 28, attempting a pull shot.