Durban Super Giants Snatched Victory From Pretoria Capitals
In a thrilling T20 match that showcased the excitement and unpredictability of the format, the Durban Super Giants managed to defend a total of 210 runs against the Pretoria Capitals, clinching victory by the slimmest margin of only 2 runs. This game at Kingsmead, Durban, was a true roller coaster ride, featuring a brilliant display of aggressive batting from the Pretoria Capitals’ openers, only for their team to face a dramatic collapse when victory seemed assured.
The Durban Super Giants batted first, accumulating a solid score of 210/4 in their allotted 20 overs. This total was bolstered by Kane Williamson’s resilient innings, which saw him finish on 60 runs from 40 balls. He was supported by explosive performances from Bryce Parsons (47 off 28 balls) and Wiaan Mulder, who unleashed a furious 45 runs from just 19 balls. Despite the efforts of the Pretoria Capitals’ bowlers, particularly Senuran Muthusamy who took 3 wickets for 21 runs, the target they set proved to be challenging.
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The chase commenced with an electrifying opening partnership between Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Will Jacks, now a memorable chapter in SA20 history. Gurbaz was in phenomenal touch, scoring 89 runs off just 43 balls, featuring 3 fours and 7 sixes. Jacks also made a significant impact, contributing 64 runs from 35 balls with 3 fours and 5 sixes. Together, they built an astonishing 154-run opening partnership, placing Pretoria in a seemingly comfortable position, requiring just 56 runs off 48 balls with all wickets intact.
However, the following events marked one of the most surprising turnarounds in recent cricket memory. After the dismissals of both openers, the Durban bowlers, spearheaded by Noor Ahmad’s spin and Naveen Ul Haq`s Pace , staged a remarkable comeback. Ahmad was especially effective, dismantling the Pretoria batting order and finishing with figures that shifted the momentum of the game. As pressure mounted, Pretoria’s batsmen fell one after another. From a situation where they needed less than a run per ball, Pretoria could only manage 54 more runs while losing 6 wickets in quick succession.
Key Moments:
Gurbaz and Jacks’ Partnership: Their collaboration was highlighted not just by the runs scored but by the intensity with which they accumulated them, placing significant strain on the Durban bowlers.
The Openers’ Dismissal: Following the departure of Gurbaz and Jacks, the momentum experienced a significant shift.
Noor Ahmad’s Bowling Performance: His spell brought a phase of control for Durban, capturing wickets at pivotal moments.
The Final Over: With Pretoria needing 14 runs in the last over, Naveen Ul Haq bowled with accuracy and composure, conceding only 11 runs and clinching the match for Durban by the narrowest of margins.
