Durban’s Super Giant face a test of their top-of-the-table credentials this week as they will be pressed into action on both Monday and Thursday. James Richarson previews matches 7-10.
The Joburg Super Kings can also make up ground through midweek as they tour the coast this week with stops in Durban and Paarl to face the tournament’s two unbeaten sides.
Monday 15 January
Durban’s Super Giants 67/100 | Joburg Super Kings 5/4
JSK stop in at the high-flying Super Giant for the clash that starts a full week of SA20 action.
Heinrich Klaasen and JJ Smuts have put in the standout knocks for DSG in their matches so far, but they might be hoping for a more balanced batting effort as they return home to Hollywoodbets Kingsmead.
Quinton de Kock has yet to fire for DSG, but the Proteas will note with interest the promise displayed by Matthew Breetzke.
JSK currently look a little bit light on top-order batters who are in form, as was shown in their big loss to MI Cape Town.
Verdict: Durban’s Super Giant 67/100
The Super Giants have been the surprise package of this competition so far. Back them to grab a home win here.
Tuesday 16 January
MI Cape Town 72/100 | Sunrisers Eastern Cape 23/20
MI Cape Town face the luckless Sunrisers Eastern Cape in a match that will see the winner take a lot of momentum forward in the tournament.
The pitch will be scrutinised after recent events at Newlands, and the union will likely hope for a high-scoring match.
Tom Abell and Tristan Stubbs have threatened to unleash, but the Sunrisers need more from their stars.
MI Cape Town’s ace up the sleeve will be the red-hot batting of Ryan Rickleton.
Verdict: MI Cape Town 72/100
The Western Cape Franchise are tipped to come away with the win against their neighbours.
Wednesday 17 January
Paarl Royals | Joburg Super Kings *betting tba
After two wins over the Pretoria Capitals, the Paarl Royals are off to a great start in the SA20.
Andile Phehlukwayo and Tabraiz Shamsi have bowled critical spells for the Royals, who have played brilliant cricket.
The Joburg Super Kings need results after a slow start and could face extreme pressure if they fail to beat DSG on Monday.
The home ground advantage that Paarl Royals seem to sport could be a significant factor in this match.
Verdict: Paarl Royals
Note that this was written before the Super Kings face the Super Giants on Monday. Nevertheless, I’ve been impressed by the Royals and I’m happy to back them here.
Thursday 18 January
Pretoria Capitals | Durban’s Super Giant *betting tba
The Pretoria Capitals finally get to play a team other than the Paarl Royals when they host DSG at SuperSport Park.
DSG have the likes of Klaasen and De Kock, who have called SuperSport Park home at the Titans.
Despite two failed chases, the Capitals have some players in good nick, including Rilee Rossouw, who struck 82 in their last outing.
The Capitals will be desperate to get back into the tournament after a pair of opening losses.
Verdict: Pretoria Capitals
I’m leaning toward the Royals to make home-ground advantage count.
