The Highveld Lions climbed to second spot on the log with a 186-run win over log-leaders the Cape Cobras on the final day of their 4-Day Franchise Series match, while the Dolphins and the Titans played out a draw.
Cape Cobras vs Highveld Lions
Craig Alexander claimed three of the five remaining wickets to wrap up a superb 186-run win for the Highveld Lions over 4-Day Domestic Series leaders the Cape Cobras on the final day of their clash in Paarl on Thursday.
The fast bowler ended with three for 52 as the hosts fell from their overnight 186 for five to 246 all out on the last morning.
There were also three-fors from Bjorn Fortuin (3-37) and Aaron Phangiso (3-77) in a polished overall performance from the Lions that inflicted a first loss of the campaign on the Cobras.
Defeat overshadowed another good display by Pieter Malan, who recorded his third century of the season by making 101 (235 balls, 13 fours), while Jason Smith struck 74 (132 balls, eight fours).
Their performances apart, it was a largely disappointing effort from the home side with the bat – their 138 all out in the first innings contributing hugely to the loss at Eurolux Boland Park.
They had started day four with some hope on 186 for five, chasing 433, and two set batsmen at the crease. Malan quickly went to his 30th first-class century but was the first wicket to fall not long after, trapped leg before wicket by Alexander. The same bowler took out Smith, moments after Phangiso got Dane Piedt (1) as all hope for the Cobras disappeared.
They were eventually bowled out in 81.2 overs, although they still head into the competition break at the top of the table.
Titans vs Dolphins
The Titans were bowled out for 381 after 104 overs in their first innings, Eldred Hawken ending not out on 84 off just 59 balls (10 fours, three sixes), with Tshepo Moreki making 34 off 42 balls. Keshav Maharaj bowled an epic 43 overs, taking 3-151, while Okuhle Cele (3-63), Lwandiswa Zuma (2-71) and Eathan Bosch (2-87) also picking up wickets.
With the Dolphins needing a big effort with the bat, Vaughn van Jaarsveld stepped up to the plate again, scoring a brilliant 133 off 157 balls (16 fours, one six). There were cameo innings played throughout the order, with 22-year-old Grant Roelofsen the next highest scorer with 46 off 94 balls (four fours, two sixes).
The draw was called with the Dolphins on 302-8, with Player of the Match Eldred Hawken adding another three-for (his second of the match) to go with his first innings 84 not out.
Knights vs Warriors
The Knights completed victory over the Warriors by 284 runs on day three.
Photo: Louis Botha/Gallo Images
