Capitalising on momentum remained an important aim for captain Faf du Plessis as the Paarl Rocks clinched a bonus-point victory over the Durban Heat in Wednesday’s Mzansi Super League fixture at Kingsmead.

The Heat were limited to 80 for nine in nine overs during the rain-affected match, after which the Rocks climbed to 98 for two en route to an adjusted target.

While Tshepo Moreki proved key with the ball, dismissing dangerous Heat duo David Miller and Khaya Zondo, Rocks opener Henry Davids was named Man of the Match on the back of a brisk 46 from 25 deliveries.

‘T20 cricket is about finding a little momentum, so with back-to-back games coming up, this win was important. You also want to show teams you can win away from home. The great thing about everyone performing is you don’t rely on one or two players. Moreki bowled really well,’ said Du Plessis.

‘Bonus points are very, very important in tournaments like these. There are a lot of teams on similar points, so a bonus point is almost like another win.’

The result lifted the Paarl unit from the bottom of the tournament’s six-team standings to third position, while the Heat slipped to sixth. Durban captain Albie Morkel, who passed a late fitness test recovering from a painful arm injury, rued the loss.

‘The scans I had done showed no fractures, just bone bruising. All credit to them, they outplayed us tonight. We’re going on the road now, and play five games in the next 10 days or so. But it suits us to play back-to-back games now, to get into the rhythm of playing. We’ve got the personnel to turn it around,’ concluded Morkel.

Photo: Gallo