• Lions keep T20 Challenge crown

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    The Central Gauteng Lions hammered the Northerns Titans by eight wickets at the Wanderers on Sunday to defend their T20 Challenge title.

    Pace bowler Lutho Sipamla (4-12) spearheaded a Lions’ attack that bundled the Titans out for 119, and was well supported by spinner Bjorn Fortuin and quick Kwena Maphaka, who claimed two wickets each.

    Sipamla produced a brilliant burst of 4-7 in his first three overs, including the big wickets of the Titans’ two most dangerous batsmen, Heinrich Klaasen and Donovan Ferreira.

    Connor Esterhuizen (48* off 36 balls) and Rassie van der Dussen (44* off 31) then made for an easy chase as Lions reached their target in 15.1 overs.

    Esterhuizen finished the match in style by pulling fast bowler Gerald Coetzee for a massive six, out of the ground and into the flats beyond the eastern stand.

    β€œIt’s very special and I’m very grateful to God after a tough time with injuries last year,” said Sipamla.

    “It’s nice to see my hard work getting results. I don’t try to think too much beyond my processes and being my best whether at practice or in the game.

    β€œThe top of off-stump is always very effective and [bowling coach] Allan Donald always pushes for that. Hitting the top of off is probably your best ball, especially on pitches like that and it’s all about execution.

    “I just try to be in the moment and the rest will take care of itself.”

    Scorecard

    Photo: Lee Warren/Gallo Images

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    Simon Borchardt