DP World Lions Crowned T20 Champions
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28Oct, 2024
The DP World Lions, successfully defended their title in the 2024/25 T20 Challenge with an emphatic victory over the Momentum Multiply Titans at the DP World Wanderers Stadium on Sunday.
The Lions clinched the match by eight wickets, showcasing their dominance in domestic cricket under the guidance of head coach Russell Domingo. This triumph marks their third consecutive title, following victories in the CSA 4-Day Series and the previous T20 Challenge, highlighting their exceptional form this season.
After winning the toss, the Titans opted to bat first but faced immediate pressure from the Lions' bowling attack. Lutho Sipamla delivered a remarkable performance, taking four wickets for just 12 runs in four overs, which significantly derailed the Titans' innings. Sipamla's spell included the vital wickets of two of the Titans’ most dangerous batsmen, Heinrich Klaasen and Donovan Ferreira. His outstanding bowling proved decisive, as he consistently targeted the top of off-stump, leading to early breakthroughs that left the Titans struggling at 34 for three within the first six overs.
The Titans could not recover from Sipamla’s onslaught, with Sibonelo Makhanya (4) attempting to hit Sipamla off his length, only to be caught at midwicket. Rivaldo Moonsamy was caught behind in Sipamla's next over, and a subsequent delivery saw Ferreira dismissed for a duck, as Sipamla's delivery snuck back into the batsman. Klaasen, who had just hit a six, fell shortly after, edging a well-executed delivery behind to wicketkeeper Connor Esterhuizen. The Titans were eventually bowled out for a mere 119 runs, with Sipamla's figures setting a record for the best in a CSA T20 Challenge final.
Lutho Sipamla expressed his gratitude post-match, saying, “It’s very special and I’m very grateful to God after a tough time with injuries last year. I just try to focus on my processes and do my best, whether in practice or in the game.”
In response, the Lions faced early adversity, slipping to 26 for two after five overs. However, Rassie van der Dussen and Connor Esterhuizen steadied the ship with a commanding partnership. Van der Dussen exhibited class and composure, scoring an unbeaten 44 runs off 31 balls, including seven boundaries and a six. Esterhuizen, who has excelled in the middle order, finished with 48 not out off 36 balls, striking six fours and a massive six that secured the win.
The pair combined for an unbroken partnership of 98 runs for the third wicket, guiding the Lions to victory in just 15.1 overs. Esterhuizen sealed the match with a powerful pull shot off fast bowler Gerald Coetzee, sending the ball soaring out of the ground and into the stands.
CSA Chief Executive Officer, Pholetsi Moseki, commended the Lions for their outstanding performance, stating, “The DP World Lions have demonstrated excellence in the most exciting format of the game. It has been inspiring to see South Africans rally behind our domestic competitions.”
The Lions’ impressive victory not only underscores their skill and teamwork but also reinforces the growing popularity of cricket in South Africa. With thrilling matches and strong community engagement, the future of domestic cricket looks exceptionally bright.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
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