The SA20 witnessed a pulsating encounter at Centurion on Sunday as the Paarl Royals edged out the Pretoria Capitals by a nail-biting 10 runs in a high-scoring affair.
A capacity crowd roared in anticipation for the Capitals’ first home game of the season, and they were treated to a feast of runs with over 400 scored across both innings.
However, despite a valiant chase led by Rilee Rossouw (82) and Will Jacks (58), the Royals’ bowling attack, spearheaded by Lungi Ngidi’s four-wicket haul (4/39), proved too strong, securing the visitors a thrilling win.
Royals Batting Blazes:
The Paarl innings got off to a flying start with Jos Buttler (39) providing early momentum. But it was Mitchell van Buuren (72* off 40 balls) and David Miller (75* off 42 balls) who truly stole the show. Their record-breaking 141-run partnership (SA20 record for any wicket at Centurion) laid the foundation for the Royals’ imposing total of 210/3.
Last-Over Drama:
The Capitals’ chase looked promising thanks to a dynamic partnership between Rossouw and Jacks. However, Ngidi’s timely wickets and Obed McCoy’s nerve-wracking final over, where he battled cramp to defend just 14 runs, sealed the fate for the Capitals.
Royals Remain Undefeated:
This victory marks the Royals’ second triumph against the Capitals this season and extends their unbeaten run in the Betway SA20. Their experience and potent bowling attack proved decisive in this closely contested match.
Additional Highlights:
- Jochen Grobler became the first “Betway SA20 Catch an R2 million” prize winner with an acrobatic one-handed catch.
- The match saw a flurry of boundaries with both teams hitting a combined 26 sixes.
With this win, the Paarl Royals solidify their position at the top of the SA20 table, while the Pretoria Capitals face an uphill battle to recover from their second consecutive defeat. The stage is set for another exciting chapter in the SA20 as the competition heats up.
