The double meetings between the Paarl Royals and Durban’s Super Giants could go a long way towards settling the playoffs. James Richardson previews matchs 19-22 of the 2024 SA20.
With the top three threatening to break away a mini-tournament will go down to determine who snatches the fourth and final playoff spot.
Friday 26 January
Paarl Royals 92/100 | Durbans Super Giants 92/100
Paarl Royals head into the weekend on top of the table but could be hauled in by second-placed DSG in their twin top-of-the-table clashes.
DSG got back to winning ways this week and are out to make a strong push for the playoff rounds.
Bowlers have come to the fore for DSG with George Linde the star last time out with a fine 2/15 from his four overs.
The Royals have been more reliant on their batters with Reeza Hendricks playing the key knock in their midweek win.
Verdict: Paarl Royals 92/100
This should be a tight, but I’m going to lean toward the home side to get the job done.
Saturday 27 January
Sunrisers Eastern Cape 82/100 | MI Cape Town 1/1
MI Cape Town need to arrest a two-match losing streak when they take on the patchy Sunrisers in a bid to stay in the playoff race.
MI will be out to do the chasing pack some favours to prevent the Sunrisers from joining that lead group in sprinting away.
The Sunrisers have form bowler Ottniel Baartman in their midst but need to improve with the bat.
Verdict: Sunrisers Eastern Cape 82/100
The Sunrisers have been the marginally better team this season and should just about squeak over the line.
Pretoria Capitals | Joburg Super Kings
*betting tba
Pretoria Capitals are out to turn around their loss to JSK last weekend, having won one and lost one in midweek.
These two sides are propping up the table and both desperately need a win.
Recent batting collapses will be a great concern for the Capitals but they should have some confidence at home.
JSK lost in midweek after beating the Capitals last weekend and now have to feel this is a must-win encounter.
Verdict: Pretoria Capitals
The Superkings have endured a horrid campaign and should fall against the Capitals.
Sunday 28 January
Durban’s Super Giants | Paarl Royals
*betting tba
The DSG and Paarl Royals double-header concludes on Sunday in Durban.
The Royals might have a chance to seal their playoff spot early but they will want to a top-two finish.
DSG are out to keep pace with the high-flying Royals. Keep in mind that this particular preview was written before the sides meet on Friday evening.
Verdict: Durban’s Super Giants
Once again, slight preference goes to the home side who should ride the wave of home support at Hollywoodbets Kingsmead.
