Lions test awaits title chasing Dolphins
The Hollywoodbets Dolphins can wrap up an extraordinary CSA
4-Day Domestic Series title when they face the DP World Lions in their final
match of the competition at Senwes Park starting on Sunday.
The turn-around from Imraan Khan’s team has been nothing short of remarkable as they have won their last four matches in a row. The team have won three home games and one away from home to take them to the summit of the table going into the final round of fixtures.
The Dolphins went into the break in the tournament with a loss and a draw to their record, and since the conclusion of the SA20 they have been unbeaten in the competition as they eye a second title in three seasons.
A boost for the Dolphins will be the return of Keegan Petersen for the match after the top order batter was left out of the Proteas side for the second test against the West Indies.
Khan has decided to take an extended squad to Potchefstroom for the final match of the season and despite being so dominant in their home conditions, captain SJ Erwee believes that they have got all bases covered.
“We have done nicely in our home conditions but we also got a good win in Bloemfontein and we are back on the Highveld for this match which the boys are excited about,” Erwee said.
“The conditions will obviously be a bit different to Kingsmead, but we’ve got a well-balanced squad and with any changes we make we’ve got full faith in every individual that they will adapt and overcome any conditions we might face.
“I know the guys are full of confidence and are really looking forward to this one. I know that the boys will put up their hands and contribute to the team.”
The Dolphins sit top of the table, however their advantage isn’t a big one which adds even more importance on a good result in this final match. For Erwee, the side are taking the build-up and the expectations in their stride.
“It’s great to be on top of the table and we know that it’s tough winning games in four day cricket.
“It’s a game that doesn’t just test your skill but also your character and it’s very exciting to be going into the final match on top of the log.
“It does come with a bit of pressure but I think we’ve got enough experienced heads in the squad to deal with that; and I’m looking forward to this final match with a great bunch of guys and hopefully it works out how we want it to,” Erwee added.
The Dolphins will go into the clash with a well-rest pace attack as only Daryn Dupavillon and Andile Phehlukwayo were used as seamers in their last home match.
The DP World Lions currently sit in fourth place on the table with two wins in the competition and will provide a stern test for the Dolphins.
Hollywoodbets Dolphins v DP World Lions Squad:
Tshepang Dithole, SJ Erwee (captain), Marques Ackerman, Bryce Parsons, Khaya Zondo, Jason Smith, Keegan Petersen, Grant Roelofsen, Eathan Bosch, Ruan de Swardt, Andile Simelane, Prenelan Subrayen, Jon-Jon Smuts, Thando Ntini, Ottniel Baartman, Daryn Dupavillon.
