Diego Rosier and Patrick Kruger smashed 100 runs in a second-wicket partnership to set up an eight-wicket win for Northern Cape against Northerns in the Africa Cup T20.

In yet another tournament affected by rain, Northern Cape were offered a target of 118 off 12 overs after rain had curtailed the start of the match and then interrupted their innings in Outshoorn on Saturday.

Rosier and Kruger set about the task with enthusiasm, after Northerns’ hopes had been lifted by the dismissal of Gerhardt Abrahams in the first over. Kruger contributed 47 off 25 balls (2×4, 3×6) before being run out, while the 22-year-old Rosier went on to register an unbeaten 68 off 34, with six fours and three sixes.

Kruger fell with the score on 104, by which stage just 14 were needed off three overs. Werner Coetsee held up his end as Rosier finished the job with six balls remaining.

Northerns, who were given 14 overs for their innings, lost wickets at regular intervals which held them back, but there was another great display by Heinrich Klaasen, who knocked off 77 from 37 balls, with six fours and four sixes.

Klaasen has had a good run early in the season, contributing a useful 45, the second-highest score in the Titans’ total in the season-opening eKasi challenge against the Lions, and an excellent 76 from 42 which gave Northerns a winning momentum against Kenya on Friday.

The match between Northern Cape and South West Districts on Friday afternoon was washed out with Northern Cape in a precarious position at 113-6 after 14 overs. There was a great battle developing with Aubrey Swanepoel on 49 off 35 balls and Neil Hornbuckle having taken 3-21 off two overs. Each gained two points.

The tournament last weekend was washed out, with only one day’s play possible, and Zimbabwe went though on a lucky draw.

Northerns v Northern Cape Scorecard

Photo:  Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images