Johannesburg, Jan 11: The West Indies registered the highest run chase in Twenty20 history as they beat South Africa by four wickets in a thrilling game here Sunday.

Hosts South Africa posted the fourth highest T20 international score of 231 for seven, propelled by skipper Faf du Plessis's 119 from 56 balls.

But even that wasn't enough, as Chris Gayle smashed 90 from 41 balls, hitting seven sixes to lead the West Indies reply. He was supported in the run chase by Marlon Samuels (60).

Gayle's departure, with 61 still needed from 38 balls, gave South Africa hope. But the West Indies skipper Darren Sammy saw the Caribbean side home with four balls to spare.

With the win, the West Indies took an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series, with the final game in Durban Wednesday.

Brief scores: South Africa 231 for seven (Faf du Plessis 119; Dwayne Bravo two for 32); West Indies 236 for six (Chris Gayle 90; David Wiese three for 43)

IANS