Captain Heinrich Klaasen reflected on a 2019 Mzansi Super League campaign hampered by washouts, as the Tshwane Spartans prepared for Friday’s qualifier against the Nelson Mandela Bay Giants at St George’s Park in Port Elizabeth.

Friday’s victor will contest Monday’s final against the Paarl Rocks at Boland Park. The Spartans graduated to the final three teams of the tournament despite five washouts.

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‘Five rained out games and you’re sitting in a semi-final, it doesnt happen very often. But the boys have played decent cricket in the five matches that we actually played,’ said Klaasen.

‘Everyone is now psyched and hopefully we can fire at 100 percent and not the 75 percent that we have been at. I think if we can do the basics well in all three disciplines, then we’ll be okay.’

Giants opening batsman Ben Dunk will be chief among the Spartans’ threats. Australian recruit Dunk has enjoyed a fine stretch of form this month.

‘As a foreign player you’re always trying to do your best and have a positive influence over the entire team, regardless of how experienced the guys are,’ added Dunk.

‘I have played a lot of cricket, but I still feel like I am learning and I have really enjoyed my time here.’

Monday’s final has been sold out, with all 7,500 tickets sold.

‘We have created a vibe at Boland Park over the last two months which enticed not only regular cricket supporters, but also new converts to this exciting new form of entertainment,’ enthused Paarl Rock chief executive officer James Fortuin.

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