SA20 (Game 19) – Durban Super Giants vs Paarl Royals
Durban’s Super Giants secured a commanding 57-run victory over the Paarl Royals, claiming the top spot with 23 points, courtesy of a bonus point. The strategic move to place Quinton de Kock in the middle order proved to be a masterstroke, as his brilliant innings on a challenging surface became the driving force behind Durban’s triumph.
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, Durban’s Super Giants faced an initial challenge but rebounded strongly with a solid partnership between JJ Smuts and Quinton de Kock, both contributing half-centuries. Heinrich Klaasen’s quick runs further bolstered the innings, leading to a formidable total of 190 runs. Despite a commendable bowling performance by Bjorn Fortuin for the Paarl Royals, Durban’s Super Giants set a daunting target.
The bowlers of Durban’s Super Giants initially faced some resistance, conceding 29 runs in 3 overs. However, a crucial breakthrough by JJ Smuts, dismissing Jason Roy, and a pivotal wicket-maiden over by Noor Ahmad shifted the momentum. The tricky pitch conditions favored the slower bowlers, with Marcus Stoinis standing out, claiming three crucial wickets. Keshav Maharaj and Reece Topley also made significant contributions, restricting the Royals.
Chasing a challenging total, the Paarl Royals struggled to find substantial partnerships, with Jos Buttler being the lone standout contributor with 45 runs. The game remained evenly poised until a game-changing wicket-maiden over by Noor Ahmad, dismissing David Miller in the 9th over. From there, the Royals faced a downward spiral, losing wickets rapidly. Despite some resistance from the lower order, the Royals fell short, unable to mount a significant challenge.
Chief Scores :
Durban Super Giants – 190 for 3 in 20 overs (Quinton De Kock 83*, JJ Smuts 52, Heinrich Klaasen 30*, Imaad Fortuin 1 for 32, Obed McCoy 1 for 39, Lungi Ngidi 1 for 46)
Paarl Royals – 133 for 10 in 19.3 overs (Jos Butler 45, Andile Phelukwayo 18, Imaad Fortuin 13, Marcus Stoinis 3 for 24, Keshav Maharaj 2 for 24, Reece Topley 2 for 27)
