Warriors head coach Rivash Gobind is eager to capitalise on homeground advantage during Wednesday’s CSA T20 Challenge semi-final against the Cape Cobras at Buffalo Park in East London.

The Warriors finished ahead of the Cobras after the 2019 tournament’s round-robin stage – and therefore avoided a semi-final at Newlands in Cape Town.

‘It is a little bit of a bonus considering all the travelling we had done without having much joy in the competition thus far. The semi-final is in East London, so we’ve been based here from the last game to this one,’ said Gobind.

‘At least we have that base to work from to prepare for the game. It’s very pleasing to be in these play-offs, especially after the first half of the competition where rain caused havoc. We’ve played some good cricket from there and look forward to it.’

Gobind acknowledged the challenged posed by a Cobras squad lined with international experience, namely all-rounders Rory Kleinveldt, Vernon Philander and JP Duminy.

Duminy’s return from a stint on the sidelines due to a shoulder injury is a particularly big threat to the Warriors.

‘It’s a knock-out game. Duminy is back and so anything can happen. Having JP back is a huge bonus for them and he adds to a squad that include other experienced players such as Philander and Kleinveldt, who have done well this season,’ added Gobind.

‘It will be tough. We hope the weather plays its part and we get a good game of cricket on Wednesday.’

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