The Hollywoodbets Dolphins gave it their all but fell just short against the fierce bizhub Highveld Lions at Senwes Park over the weekend.
Durban – The Hollywoodbets Dolphins took on the challenging away RAM SLAM T20 Challenge fixture against the bizhub Highveld Lions at Senwes Park in Potchefstroom this past Sunday, in a gripping match that went right down to the wire.
Set a target of 169 to claim victory, the Lions’ openers Rassie van der Dussen and Reeza Hendricks showed great aggression and skill on the batsman-friendly pitch, putting on a near-unbreakable first wicket stand of 158 and pushing their side close to the win without losing a wicket.
With Van der Dussen out for 67, stumped by Dane Vilas off the bowling of Andile Phehlukwayo, the Dolphins’ fighting spirit ignited. The match tension soared with only eleven runs needed off ten balls.
Phehlukwayo quickly removed Mangaliso Moshehle on the very next ball, and in a dramatic final over, Rob Frylinck struck to dismiss Nicky van den Bergh for just one run.
Exceptional fielding brilliance by Keshav Maharaj caught Dwaine Pretorius short of his ground at the keeper’s end on the immediate next delivery, leaving the outcome hanging on a knife’s edge.
The Lions required just three runs off the last ball, with Wiaan Mulder expertly striking it to the boundary, securing a thrilling six-wicket win.
Earlier in the day, after winning the toss and opting to bat first, the Hollywoodbets Dolphins lost early wickets including their prolific scorer Sarel Erwee at 4 and Dane Vilas at 23 runs on the scoreboard.
Captain Khaya Zondo worked solidly with opener Morné van Wyk to steady the innings and wrest control back from the hosts.
Both batsmen were soon dismissed within a short run gap, making way for Sibongelo Makhanya. Supported positively by Andile Phehlukwayo and Rob Frylinck, Makhanya scored a vital 46 runs off 34 balls, helping the Dolphins post a competitive total of 168/6.
The Hollywoodbets Dolphins are now gearing up for an exciting home encounter against the Warriors at Sahara Stadium Kingsmead on Wednesday evening. The team is eager to remain in the race for a play-off spot in this fan-friendly competition.
Supporters who bought tickets for Friday night’s rain-affected match can redeem them for free entry to the Wednesday clash.
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