With six draws from their opening six games in the Sunfoil Series, the Hollywoodbets Dolphins are heading to Port Elizabeth filled with determination to secure the elusive win that has slid away from them all season. They face off against the Warriors from Thursday through Sunday hoping to turn the tide.
The Dolphins kick-started the second half of the Sunfoil Series in Bloemfontein last week, but got off to a slow start that left them struggling to gain the upper hand.
Despite a gutsy fightback in their follow-on innings which earned them a draw, the team knows that to contend for the series crown they must attack games more aggressively and maintain their momentum throughout.
Coach Grant Morgan reflected, “We’ve only caught glimpses of our best form this season. We owe it to ourselves to bring our A game at least three times in the remaining four matches.”
“The issue has been losing small but significant portions of the four-day games in both batting and bowling. It’s frustrating having to constantly battle on the back foot and claw our way back into matches.”
“We’re dropping crucial first innings points, which is putting us in a tight spot. Winning is essential, but if not, then staying within striking distance by collecting those points is critical.”
Although wickets were hard to come by against the Knights last week, Morgan has retained the same bowling attack, confident that their skill outweighs any concerns about inexperience.
“Our bowlers have the knack for swinging the ball, and I’m hopeful for a stronger display in Port Elizabeth,” he added. “There might have been nerves before, but we’re backing these players and looking forward to what they can offer down at St. George’s Park.”
The squad will be the same eleven who took the field last week, with Prenelan Subrayen and Daryn Dupavillon joining the group. Dupavillon may be sidelined due to injury but will work alongside trainers for a hopeful comeback.
The Durban side’s previous trip to St George’s Park earned them a bonus point victory in the Momentum One Day Cup, and with Morgan’s insight into the conditions and pitch, the Dolphins are confident they can end their run of drawn matches.
“The wicket can produce any kind of result, and I’m expecting it to be a result pitch,” Morgan said.
“The Warriors are a strong side and have given us tough contests historically. That rivalry adds an exciting edge to this encounter.
“Our goal is to dominate early by getting our batting spot on in the first innings. We have multiple strategies to take 20 wickets, but that will be the challenge to overcome.”
HOLLYWOODBETS DOLPHINS SQUAD:
Sarel Erwee, Morne Van Wyk, Vaughn Van Jaarveld, Senuran Muthusamy, Sibonelo Makhanya, Dane Vilas, Keshav Maharaj (Captain), Robert Frylinck, Athi Maposa, Kerwin Mungroo, Zakariya Paruk, Daryn Dupavillon, Prenelan Subrayen.
