SUNRISERS SOAR IN CENTURION CHASE
Sunrisers Eastern Cape put on a batting masterclass to comprehensively outplay the Pretoria Capitals in their SA20 clash at SuperSport Park, chasing down 177 with all ten wickets in hand in just 14.2 overs.
A statement win that not only sealed a bonus point but also marked the highest successful run-chase in SA20 history.
The Capitals looked competitive after electing to bat first, posting 176 for 7 thanks largely to a brisk half-century from Connor Esterhuizen (52 off 33) and a powerful cameo from Sherfane Rutherford (47 not out off 22).
But their innings lacked the big partnerships that could’ve put the chase beyond reach, and Sunrisers’ bowlers kept things tight when it mattered.
However, it was the reply that truly stole the show. Openers Quinton de Kock (79 not out off 41) and Jonny Bairstow (85 not out off 45) delivered one of the most dominant opening stands seen in the league, cruising past the target without losing a single wicket.
The pair were brutal from the outset, smashing a flurry of boundaries and sixes and smashing a 34-run over off Keshav Maharaj, one of the most expensive overs in SA20 history.
De Kock set the tone in the powerplay with crisp attacking shots, while Bairstow paced his innings and then exploded, punishing anything loose.
Their unbeaten partnership not only secured the 10-wicket win but also underlined how difficult chasing has become under lights in the SA20 this season.
Image credit: The Citizen