The Hollywoodbets Dolphins will kick off 2018 without their star batsman Vaughn van Jaarsveld, who unfortunately dislocated his finger during training on Wednesday. This injury means he’ll miss the crucial Momentum One Day Cup clash against the Warriors in Port Elizabeth this Friday.
Every injury opens a door for another player to step up, and Van Jaarsveld’s absence is a chance for someone new to shine as the Dolphins embark on a challenging tour to the Eastern Cape.
Earlier, the Dolphins started strong by winning their opening game of the Momentum One Day Cup against the WSB Cape Cobras but then faced a nail-biting loss, falling to the bizhub Highveld Lions on the final ball in Potchefstroom right before the New Year break.
Coach Grant Morgan shared his thoughts: “Though the loss to the Lions stung, we were encouraged to see we competed fiercely. If teams are going to beat us, it’s going to be down to the last ball.”
Besides Van Jaarsveld, leading wicket-taker Mthokozisi Shezi is currently tackling exams, meaning the squad will rely on other talented players eager to prove their worth.
“Fortunately, we have excellent cricketers ready to fill in, with Sarel Erwee and Imran Tahir returning to the side. Everyone is in fine form, and even those breaking into the team have delivered this season. Although some criticised us for getting out in the thirties during the game in Potch, I didn’t observe much reckless batting,” Morgan added enthusiastically.
“I’m genuinely excited about our batting lineup. It’s fantastic to have the entire squad active, giving us selection dilemmas moving forward.”
The Warriors, last season’s losing finalists in the 50-over competition, have often been a stumbling block for the Durban side. Morgan is determined to change this trend.
“We have various strategies at our disposal, including a balanced attack of four seamers and three spinners, batting deep down to number nine. Our spin options include leg spin, off spin, and left-arm spin, alongside both left- and right-arm seamers.”
“The Warriors are a strong team with great players, but if we bring our best game, we can outplay them.”
“We know the Warriors have disrupted our plans in the past, knocking us out of playoff matches. We are resolved to turn the tide in our favour,” Morgan said firmly.
“We’ve learnt tough lessons at St George’s Park, where we haven’t performed to our potential previously, so we’re keen to set the record straight this time around.”
Despite his wife Pippa expecting their baby, Dane Vilas has been named in the squad for the Port Elizabeth trip, showing his commitment.
The Dolphins have also welcomed back promising young fast bowler Okuhle Cele, recently recovered from a lengthy injury layoff, included in the squad for Friday’s match.
HOLLYWOODBETS DOLPHINS SQUAD:
Sarel Erwee, Senuran Muthusamy, Khaya Zondo, Cody Chetty, Sibonelo Makhanya, Calvin Savage, Robert Frylinck, Imran Tahir, Athi Maposa, Prenelan Subrayen, Okuhle Cele, Morne Van Wyk, Dane Vilas.
For the latest updates and more information, visit www.dolphinscricket.co.za
