The Paarl Royals continued their dominant run in the SA20, crushing the Joburg Super Kings by seven wickets and claiming a valuable bonus point. The win keeps them atop the table with a perfect record after three matches, while JSK remain winless after four.
Seamer Stars Spearhead Victory:
Royals’ bowling attack, unlike previous matches where spinners shone, saw seamers take center stage. Obed McCoy started strong, removing Reeza Hendricks. The showstopper was Lungi Ngidi, who claimed the competition’s leading wicket-taker title and bagged three crucial wickets, including Faf du Plessis and debutant Wayne Madsen.
Leus du Plooy’s 71 in Vain as Run-Outs Hurt JSK:
Despite a valiant 71 from Leus du Plooy, JSK struggled with run-outs, including a key dismissal of du Plooy himself, orchestrated by Royals’ wicket-keeper Jos Buttler. They were eventually bundled out for 134.
Buttler Blazes to Unbroken 70, Royals Cruise to Victory:
The chase was never in doubt as Buttler, the competition’s leading run-scorer in Season 1, turned on the heat with an unbeaten 70 off 37 balls, showcasing his explosive form ahead of the Cape Derbies. Wihan Lubbe provided able support with a 30-ball 39 before falling to Imran Tahir.
Royals now face MI Cape Town in the Cape Derbies, while JSK aims to bounce back against Pretoria Capitals in the Jukskei Derby.
