The Central Gauteng Lions claimed a comfortable seven-wicket victory over the KZN Dolphins in the T20 Challenge final at the Wanderers on Sunday.
Needing 166 to win, Reeza Hendricks (73* off 52 balls) anchored the innings after the early dismissals of Ryan Rickelton (18), Rassie van der Dussen (six) and Temba Bavuma (seven), bringing Wiaan Mulder (55* off 26 balls) to the crease.
The duo orchestrated an elegant 85-run partnership, guiding the reigning 4-Day Series champions to their second title this season.
Earlier, the Dolphins found themselves batting first in the Lions’ den. A miscommunication led to the run-out of Bryce Parsons for just three, while Jon Jon Smuts was caught off the bowling of skipper Bjorn Fortuin for seven.
Opener Khaya Zondo (37 off 25 balls) and Marques Ackerman (17 off 11) attempted to steady the ship, but their efforts were short-lived as Nqaba Peter (1-42) trapped Zondo lbw and Evan Jones had Ackerman caught by Mulder at mid-on.
Lutho Sipamla then clean-bowled Andile Phehlukwayo (10) before Fortuin (2-24) returned to dismiss Tshepang Dithole (10).
It was Jason Smith’s 51 off 33 balls that revitalised the Dolphins’ innings, forming a 57-run partnership with Eathan Bosch (17) to propel them to 165-8.
Photo: Sydney Seshibedi/Gallo Images
