Exciting Final Push as the Sunfoil Series Heats Up | Hollywoodbets Sports Blog


Vaughn van Jaarsveld (Credit: Anesh Debiky) - Hollywoodbets Dolphins - Sunfoil Series

The Hollywoodbets Dolphins are gearing up for a focused and electrifying return to the Sunfoil Series as they face off against the VKB Knights in Bloemfontein from Thursday 8 to Sunday 11 February.

The four-day competition has been fierce, with the Durban side drawing all of their first five matches. Sitting in fifth place, the log is tightly contested, making every point crucial.

“We’re 17.72 points behind the Titans sitting at the top of the table,” said coach Grant Morgan. “Our goal is clear – we’re aiming to win three of the next five games and accumulate a total of 164 points to clinch the Sunfoil Series.”

Though the Knights haven’t made a huge splash in recent limited-over tournaments, Morgan expects a tough battle ahead. “This is shaping up to be our toughest challenge of the season. They’re a motivated bunch with quality players, eager to bounce back and climb the four-day ranks,” he commented.

Despite missing key players like captain Khaya Zondo and Andile Phehlukwayo, the Dolphins’ batting order remains formidable with a few tactical adjustments to maintain balance.

“Morné van Wyk and Sarel Erwee will open the batting, with Vaughn van Jaarsveld at three and Sen Muthusamy at four. The rest of the squad features Makhanya, Vilas, Maharaj, Frylinck, Zak Paruk, Athi Maposa and Kerwin Mungroo,” explained Morgan.

Young Zakariya Paruk will make his franchise debut, having impressed with the KZN Coastals and earning his place in the first-class squad. “Our squad is a blend of experience and youthful energy, with Keshav Maharaj’s leadership guiding us forward,” Morgan said confidently.

“The guys had a few days off after the One Day Cup final, so they’re recharged and ready to give their best on the field.”

Bowling duties will be led by veteran Rob Frylinck alongside captain Maharaj, supporting a promising, youthful seam attack. Morgan added, “We have four seamers and Sibz Makhanya as our fifth. Senuran Muthusamy will share spinning responsibilities with Keshav while Athi Maposa, Kerwin Mungroo, and Zakariya Paruk add to our depth.”

At just 19, Paruk has taken 28 wickets in 10 matches for the KZN Coastals, boasting an impressive average of 17 and a best of 5/44 against KZN Inland at Kingsmead.

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, Lwandisa Zuma, Graham Hume.

For more updates, visit www.dolphinscricket.co.za.

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