By Tim Douglas 
MI Cape Town delivered a commanding performance at Newlands, securing a bonus-point victory over the Pretoria Capitals to cap off a flawless home campaign in SA20 Season 3.
With this emphatic 95-run win, MI Cape Town not only topped the table but also set a new record points tally of 35 after the league phase. Robin Peterson’s squad followed the Paarl Royals in completing an undefeated home season, proving their dominance at the foot of Table Mountain.
New Opening Duo Sets the Tone
Despite six changes to their playing XI, MI Cape Town maintained their high standards. A new-look opening partnership of Sediqullah Atal and Connor Esterhuizen showcased the team’s incredible squad depth with a blistering 133-run stand.
- Sediqullah Atal entertained the Newlands crowd with a breathtaking 77 off 46 balls (4 fours, 6 sixes).
- Esterhuizen was equally destructive, smashing 69 off 43 balls (6 fours, 3 sixes).
- Delano Potgieter provided a final push with a rapid 26 off 15 deliveries, taking MI Cape Town to a season-high 201/5 at Newlands.
Spin Wizards Decimate Capitals
The MI Cape Town bowlers wasted no time in asserting control. Off-spinner Dane Piedt ignited the attack with a wicket off the very first ball, dismissing Will Jacks.
Piedt, making his SA20 debut for his hometown team, was the star performer:
“It has been amazing. I grew up here, playing in front of my wife, son, and parents. I love keeping the team motivated, creating energy, and getting the guys to express themselves. This tournament has been incredible.” – Dane Piedt
His outstanding spell of 3/28 earned him the Player of the Match award.
The Capitals had no answers for MI Cape Town’s spin trio, who collectively dismantled their batting lineup:
- Dane Piedt: 3/28
- Thomas Kaber (Leg-spinner): 3/21
- George Linde (Left-arm spinner): 2/11
Their combined 8/60 restricted the Capitals to just 106 all out in 14 overs, sealing a record-breaking win.
Stand-in Captain Praises Fan Support
Colin Ingram, leading MI Cape Town in this match, lauded the support from the Newlands crowd and the squad’s balanced approach.
“The fans have been incredible. The first two years didn’t go as planned, but seeing this kind of support has been humbling. The team has performed exceptionally, and the bowlers have been phenomenal.” – Colin Ingram
Next Stop: Playoffs Battle in Gqeberha
With the top spot secured, MI Cape Town now turn their attention to the Qualifier 1 clash against Paarl Royals at St George’s Park, Gqeberha. The winner of this showdown will earn a direct ticket to the final at The Wanderers on February 8.
Cricket fans can expect another thrilling contest as MI Cape Town look to extend their dominant form into the knockout stages.