
NEW DELHI: They outplayed the Durban Super Giants in a crunch match in Kingsmead on Thursday to win the match by five wickets, and because of this kind of performance, they are sitting atop of SA20 Season 3. This win has seen the Royals move closer in the quest for playoff qualification and are currently on seventeen points.
The loss, on the other hand, sees DSG with eight points at the foot of the log and it will be a herculean task for the side to fight for playoffs. Even the 15 for the remaining three matches, which of course can come at bonus point adds on each of them would place Lance Klusener’s side total at 23. Instead, the Royals require just one more win to clinch the postseason berth for itself.
Mujeeb-ur-Rahman Shines in a Spin Battle
The clash included an interesting battle between Afghanistan’s spin twins for the Paarl Royals in Mujeeb-ur-Rahman and for the Durban Super Giants- Noor Ahmad. It was a good contest but Mujeeb outplayed his opposite number by being outstanding as he bowled a splendid Economy rate of 2/23 to dismantle the Super Giants’ batting line-up.
Quinton de Kock and Matthew Breetzke had the best combination DSG had started well with the opening pair Dez 62 runs. De Kock, who was handed the full credentials to open the innings, looked in good touch during that 43. But getting out of trouble, just when it seemed that Kusal wanted to capitalize on the momentum, came Mujeeb. De Kock got a bit impatient and tried for a big hit, and a simple catch to deep long-off saw the Royals get a big hand.
Mujeeb wasn’t done yet. He came back to get the wicket of Heinrich Klaasen for a paltry two before building more pressure against the Super Giants in the middle overs. Jon-Jon Smuts scored 32 and Wiaan Mulder contributed 24 but the Super Giants could not get back the control and were kept to 142 for seven in their 20 overs.
Rubin Hermann Leads the Charge for the Royals
Going for 143, the Paarl Royals began their chase on the backfoot when Joe Root was cleaned up for a duck. But then Lhuan-dre Pretorius came good scoring 25 off 13, including fours batting at no 7 to bring parity.
The hero of the Royals’ chase though was Rubin Hermann. The mood at the crease came from the 22 year old once again in a flamboyant display by scoring 44 off just 22 balls inclusive of four fours and three sixes. Hermann’s fiery over saved much roast on the Royals who actually eased up after his performance, unfortunately, he was bowled by a great piece of delivery from Noor Ahmad but his effort paved way for Royals victory.
The young Afghan spinner in Super Giants named Noor Ahmad bowled the “ball of the match” and knocked the stumps of Hermann who is in good form. Ahmad did have one toothless magic moment in the match where he duly took the wicket of Hasan but he was a lone warrior, trying to make an impact with the DSG bowling out of sorts.
Mitchell van Buuren steadied the Royals with a sensible 44 and made certain his team did not suffer a late collapse. His calm nerves helped Paarl Royals home across the line with five wickets and eight balls to spare.
Looking Ahead
The Durban Super Giants will have to pull up their socks as they are set to play their next match against MI Cape Town at Newlands. DSG’s days are numbered and their chance at playoff position are slim. As for the Paarl Royals, the picture looks quite optimistic now. They will come into Saturday’s match against the Pretoria Capitals with confidence, especially if they win the match to qualify for the playoffs.
The Royals have proven to be one of the most solid teams of SA20 Season 3 as the experienced players join young talents, rapidly growing and thriving in a crucial aspect. There is no doubt that Paarl Royals has gained the necessary momentum for the team to become the team to beat in the season.