We preview Wednesday’s Ram Slam T20 Challenge clash between the Hollywoodbets Dolphins and the bizhub Highveld Lions.
The Hollywoodbets Dolphins suffered their second defeat of the season on Sunday, narrowly losing by just one run to the Warriors in Port Elizabeth.
Captain Khaya Zondo and his team will be hoping the rain forecast for Wednesday holds off, as further washouts could seriously hamper the KZN franchise’s chances of making it to the semi-finals.
Dolphins vs Lions | Wednesday 6 December | Sahara Stadium Kingsmead | 18:00
Betting Odds to Win Match
Dolphins 82/100 | Tie 35/1 | Lions 21/20
Hollywoodbets Dolphins
The Dolphins were their own worst enemies in the recent match against the Warriors. Dane Vilas missed a straightforward chance to stump Christiaan Jonker early on. Then the Warriors’ big hitter targeted bowlers Imran Tahir and Andile Phelukwayo, turning the game in the Warriors’ favour.
Top-order batsmen Sarel Erwee and the returning Vaughn van Jaarsveld made questionable shot selections on a challenging Port Elizabeth wicket, getting out quickly.
The Dolphins haven’t played much cricket lately due to rain cancellations, which might have affected their rhythm. Nonetheless, players like Robbie Frylinck, who took the third ever hat-trick in this competition, and batting all-rounder Sibonelo Makhanya, who showed great promise with a quick 33 off 24 balls, stood out.
Veteran Morne van Wyk also impressed with a steady 57 runs before being run out.
Looking ahead to Wednesday, the team is unlikely to change much. Mthokozisi Shezi and Frylinck bowled well last game, and Keshav Maharaj kept things tight, conceding only 24 runs in four overs.
However, better performances are expected from Imran Tahir and Andile Phelukwayo, who were a bit off their game. They will be eager to play in familiar conditions.
bizhub Highveld Lions
The Lions, powered by the in-form duo Reeza Hendricks and Rassie van der Dussen, are strong contenders to finish second on the table, setting up a home semi-final appearance.
They face the Dolphins in their last away round-robin game on Wednesday before likely playing two more winnable games back home.
Unfortunate weather affected their previous match in Bloemfontein, resulting in a washout in a season already hit by numerous rain cancellations.
The Lions boast match-winners across the board with Hendricks and van der Dussen leading the charge. All-rounders and bowlers like Wiaan Mulder, Kagiso Rabada, Aaron Phangiso and Hardus Viljoen have thrilled fans this season.
Kagiso Rabada has been one of the standout seamers, alongside Lungi Ngidi and Shadley van Schalkwyk. Rabada has taken eight wickets in six matches, with an impressive economy rate of 6.73, making him crucial for Wednesday’s clash.
How well Rabada and Bjorn Fortuin bowl early in the Dolphins innings may set the tone for the match. If they allow batsmen van Wyk and Erwee to settle, the Lions might find themselves under pressure chasing the target.
Verdict: bizhub Highveld Lions 21/20
The Lions’ more consistent cricket exposure, combined with Hendricks and van der Dussen being in top form, gives them the edge. They look well poised to take on the Dolphins and come out on top in this exciting encounter.
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