The second round of the Sunfoil Series takes place from Thursday to Sunday in the northern part of the country.

With the Cobras and Dolphins absent, due to their participation in the CLT20, the second round of the Sunfoil Series features matches between the two winners and two losers from the opening fixtures. Senwes Park in Potchefstroom will play host to the top of the table match between the Lions and Knights, while the Titans and Warriors will be eager to grab their first win of the season at Willowmoore Park in Benoni.

The bowlers dominated in the first round and should do so again on the early season pitches. The batsmen, particularly in the match between the Titans and Warriors, will have to show greater application to ensure that the contest goes into a fourth day.

Players to watch:

The batsmen in Potchefstroom should get a real working over on a fast track. Hardus Viljoen took seven wickets in the second innings against the Titans and will once against be the Lions’ enforcer. For the Knights, Corne Dry will be eager to show that his five-for against the Warriors was just the start of a watershed season.

In Benoni, batsmen in both sides will look to restore some pride. Dean Elgar uncharacteristically failed twice in his first outing for the Titans and he will be determined to make a statement at his new franchise. Colin Ingram will be equally keen to get among the runs and lead his side from the front in his first season as the Warriors captain.

Prediction:

The great thing about playing on lively pitches in spring is that you are almost certainly going to get a result. The Lions are a well-rounded unit who should be too strong for a Knights side with no nationally contracted players. The Titans squad boasts a lot of experience and they should register their first win after a disappointing start to the season.

Preview compiled by Gareth Stevens.

Photo: Backpagepix/Ryan Wilkisky