The Hollywoodbets Dolphins are set to face the formidable Multiply Titans at Sahara Willowmore Park in Benoni for their fifth RAM SLAM T20 Challenge match this Friday evening.
As the tournament reaches its mid-point, the Dolphins hold a strong position tied for second place on the log, despite a couple of their recent matches being affected by weather. They’re eager to make a strong statement against the table-topping Titans.
“You’ve got two choices, I think, going into this game,” says coach Grant Morgan. “You can either dwell on being underdone because we lost two games to the weather, or embrace the privilege of playing against such a top side like the Titans.”
“We’ve been training hard, and if we are a bit underdone, so be it – maybe the others are feeling the fatigue.”
The Titans have been on impressive form with a squad packed with Protea players, and Morgan believes playing against the country’s best chaps is what it’s truly about.
“What more do you want as a player and a man? It’s a chance to challenge yourself against the finest in the nation.”
Despite injuries to players like Vaughn van Jaarsveld, Rabian Engelbrecht, Okuhle Cele, and Lwandiswa Zuma, the Dolphins travel well-equipped.
“We have depth to adapt,” Morgan explains. “Our batting line-up is solid with Keshav Maharaj at eight and Prenelan Subrayen potentially at nine. Or we can opt for more bowling options. Flexibility is key.”
In the fast-paced T20 format, every over counts, and every player must be ready to make a critical, quick impact.
“Each player should be prepared for short bursts – even just one over could be match-winning if you keep runs down.”
Interestingly, Morgan notes the Titans’ dominant form may be a double-edged sword.
“If top players slip up, the less experienced lower-order guys might face pressure they haven’t yet encountered in the competition.”
Following Friday’s clash, the Dolphins get a week’s break before a hectic final stretch with five games in nine days ahead of the play-offs.
Their next encounter will be a home game against the WSB Cape Cobras at Sahara Stadium Kingsmead on Friday, 1 December.
HOLLYWOODBETS DOLPHINS SQUAD:
Sarel Erwee, Morne Van Wyk, Khaya Zondo (c), Sibonelo Makhanya, Andile Phehlukwayo, Rob Frylinck, Keshav Maharaj, Prenelan Subrayen, Athi Maposa, Eathan Bosch, Imran Tahir, Mthokozisi Shezi, Dane Vilas.
For more updates, visit the official Dolphins Cricket website.
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