South Africa triumphed over Bangladesh by seven wickets in the first Test, marking their first Test victory in Asia since 2014. With this win, the Proteas take a 1-0 lead in the two-match series, making a statement on the subcontinent.
Day 4 began with South African seamers asserting their dominance from the get-go. Mehidy Hasan Miraz, who resumed unbeaten on 87, could only add 10 more runs to his tally, falling just three runs short of a well-deserved century. Bangladesh managed to add only 24 runs to their overnight score before being bowled out for 307, as Kagiso Rabada and Wiaan Mulder wasted no time in cleaning up the tail.
With a modest target of 106 runs, South Africa had five sessions to chase the total. Although they lost three wickets in their rush to seal the win, Tristan Stubbs and Ryan Rickelton held firm to guide the Proteas to victory, securing a memorable Test win in Asia after nearly a decade.
Kagiso Rabada had already inflicted damage on Bangladesh’s hopes with a standout performance on day two. His partnership with Kyle Verreynne set the tone for the match as Verreynne's gritty century and Mulder's crucial half-century helped South Africa recover from 108/6 in the first innings to establish a commanding 202-run lead.
Rabada, Mulder, and Keshav Maharaj each took three wickets in Bangladesh's first innings, bundling the hosts out for 106. Verreynne's brilliant ton earned him Player of the Match honors, as South Africa powered through for a long-awaited and hard-earned Test win on Asian soil.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
October 20, 2024, will be etched in New Zealand's cricketing history as a monumental day. The White Ferns clinched their first-ever ICC Women's T20 World Cup title in Dubai, just hours after the men's team broke a 36-year drought with a Test victory in India. This double triumph marked a golden day for a nation of four million passionate fans.
At the heart of New Zealand's victory was Amelia Kerr, whose all-round performance secured a 32-run win against South Africa. Kerr, battling cramps, top-scored with 43 runs and took three crucial wickets, including the dismissals of Laura Wolvaardt and Anneke Bosch, turning the match decisively in New Zealand's favor. Kerr’s contribution was not just a statistic; it was the backbone of the White Ferns' historic triumph.
The White Ferns, having been put in to bat first, posted an imposing total of 158/5 in 20 overs. Their innings was spearheaded by Kerr and Brooke Halliday, who added a pivotal 57-run partnership. Halliday's career-best knock of 38 off 28 balls breathed new life into New Zealand’s innings at a time when they had struggled to find momentum. Together, they helped propel their side to a commanding position, with Maddy Green providing late fireworks by smashing a six off the penultimate ball of the innings.
South Africa, chasing 159, had a promising start. Wolvaardt and Tazmin Brits, the tournament's top scorers, guided their team to 47 without loss at the end of the powerplay. However, Fran Jonas broke through by dismissing Brits, and Kerr soon took center stage with a double strike that effectively ended South Africa’s hopes. Wolvaardt, trying to maintain the momentum, was caught by Suzie Bates at extra cover, and Bosch soon followed, gloving a sweep to the wicketkeeper after Kerr’s successful review.
South Africa’s collapse was swift and brutal. Marizanne Kapp’s dismissal by Eden Carson was the final blow, as she mistimed a shot to deep midwicket. Kerr’s third wicket, combined with Rosemary Mair’s three-for, ensured that the Proteas could never recover, finishing their innings on 126/9.
This victory was particularly sweet for legends Suzie Bates and Sophie Devine. Bates, playing her 334th international match, cemented her status as the most capped women’s cricketer, while Devine capped her tenure as T20 captain with the elusive trophy that had escaped them 14 years ago. The two veterans, who have carried New Zealand cricket through difficult times, stood proudly as they lifted the World Cup in the twilight of their illustrious careers.
New Zealand’s triumph was not just about individual brilliance, but also about resilience. The White Ferns entered the tournament on the back of 10 consecutive T20I losses—the longest losing streak ever reversed to win a World Cup. But on this night, the ghosts of those defeats were exorcised.
South Africa failed to show the same intent as they displayed against Australia In the Semi Finals, a few days earlier. They conceded far too many extra's and they seemed edgy in the field. The big occasion got to them, as it does with most teams. On the big night, they were simply outplayed.
As New Zealand celebrates their double cricketing success, this T20 World Cup victory stands as a testament to the grit, determination, and collective spirit of a team that refused to be written off. The White Ferns, led by their fearless veterans and inspired by the brilliance of Amelia Kerr, have forever etched their names in the annals of New Zealand's cricketing history.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
Another Cricket World Cup Final and another loss. That's three in a row for the Men and Women's Proteas team. The teams struggled to make the finals for decades and have now overcome that hurdle. They have however failed to hold the cup.
October 20, 2024, will be remembered as a disappointing day for South African cricket fans. The Proteas Women, who had stormed their way to the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup final with an impressive campaign, fell short in the big match against New Zealand, losing by 32 runs in Dubai. Despite a strong start to their chase, South Africa’s hopes of lifting their first T20 World Cup were dashed by an inspired White Ferns performance, led by Amelia Kerr.
The Proteas had entered the final with only one loss in the tournament—to England in the group stages—and their confidence had been sky-high after a commanding semi-final win over Australia. In that game, South Africa had shown positive intent and determination, stunning the Aussies with both bat and ball. However, the final against New Zealand proved to be a different challenge altogether, as the Proteas were outclassed on the night.
New Zealand, batting first after losing the toss, posted a formidable 158/5 in their 20 overs. Amelia Kerr, the star of the night, top-scored with 43 despite struggling with cramps, and her crucial contribution was supported by Brooke Halliday’s career-best 38. The White Ferns were steady throughout, and a late burst from Maddy Green, including a six off the penultimate ball, pushed their total to a challenging target for South Africa.
The Proteas started their chase with promise, as in-form openers Laura Wolvaardt and Tazmin Brits, the tournament’s top run-scorers, carried the team to 47 without loss by the end of the powerplay. Wolvaardt in particular looked in sublime touch, but the breakthrough came when Fran Jonas dismissed Brits, and the game began to turn. Amelia Kerr, already shining with the bat, then took the ball and made her mark once more. She dismissed Wolvaardt for 33, catching her at extra cover, and then struck again by removing Anneke Bosch in the same over after a successful review.
From there, South Africa struggled to recover. Marizanne Kapp’s wicket, mistiming a shot to deep midwicket off Eden Carson’s bowling, left the Proteas reeling. The nerves of the final seemed to catch up with them, as they looked a shadow of the side that had dominated Australia in the semi-final. Fielding mistakes, an inability to handle the pressure, and crucial missteps allowed New Zealand to maintain control throughout the match.
The Proteas, finishing at 126/9, could not find the acceleration needed to challenge the White Ferns’ total. Rosemary Mair, with three wickets, combined with Kerr’s all-round heroics to put the finishing touches on a comprehensive New Zealand victory.
Despite the heartbreak, the Proteas’ journey to the final cannot be discounted. They had shown brilliance throughout the tournament and displayed the potential to become champions. However, on this night, they were simply outplayed by a New Zealand team that came prepared for the occasion. The White Ferns, led by veterans Suzie Bates and Sophie Devine, celebrated a historic win—clinching their first ICC Women’s T20 World Cup title. Bates, playing her 334th international match, and Devine, finishing her stint as T20 captain, lifted the trophy that had eluded them 14 years ago.
While the Proteas will be disappointed by the result, they will no doubt learn from the experience and return stronger. Their semi-final win over Australia had shown their potential, but in the final, New Zealand proved to be the better team on the day. South Africa will reflect on what could have been, but they should also be proud of their efforts and resilience throughout the tournament.
Ultimately, the Proteas fell short, but their journey continues—and they remain a formidable force in women’s cricket.
[Submitted by Estea Rademeyer]
The Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 draw took center stage on BBC’s The One Show, one of the network’s most-watched programs, broadcasting live from the heart of London at Broadcasting House. The highly anticipated draw was conducted by BBC Sport’s Gabby Logan, England Women’s Rugby World Cup 2014 winner Maggie Alphonsi, and presenter Roman Kemp, with PwC ensuring the process was independently overseen.
As the fixtures are set to be revealed on Tuesday, 22 October, the excitement among fans is palpable. Many are eagerly planning their World Cup experience as the tournament edges closer.
Before the draw, the 16 teams were seeded into four bands based on their World Rugby Women’s Rankings (as of 14 October). The top four teams—England, Canada, New Zealand, and France—were automatically placed into the first position of each pool.
The draw for Pool A sees host nation and current world number one, England, grouped with Australia, USA, and Samoa. In Pool B, second-ranked Canada will face Scotland, Wales, and Fiji. Pool C includes reigning champions New Zealand, who will play Ireland, Japan, and Spain. Meanwhile, France, the bronze medalists from Rugby World Cup 2021, are placed in Pool D alongside Italy, South Africa, and Brazil.
Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 Pools:
Pool A: England, Australia, USA, Samoa
Pool B: Canada, Scotland, Wales, Fiji
Pool C: New Zealand, Ireland, Japan, Spain
Pool D: France, Italy, South Africa, Brazil
Over three weekends, each team will play their pool opponents, with the top two teams from each pool advancing to the quarter-finals and knockout stages.
England 2025 promises to be the most accessible Women’s Rugby World Cup to date. With 95% of England’s population living within two hours of one of the eight iconic match venues, and 60% of tickets priced under £25, fans are set to unite for a historic event. Early ticket sales have broken records, with over 60,000 fans already securing seats for England’s opener in Sunderland and the final matches at Twickenham. England will also play pool games in Northampton and Brighton & Hove.
Fans will be able to apply for tickets for all matches starting at 11:00 GMT on Tuesday, 5 November, with applications closing at 11:00 GMT on Tuesday, 19 November. In the event of oversubscription, ballots will determine ticket allocations.
Sarah Massey, Managing Director of Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025, expressed her excitement, saying: “With anticipation building among fans and teams, today marks an important step forward for what promises to be an unforgettable tournament. Next week’s match schedule unveiling will allow fans and host cities to truly begin preparing for their Rugby World Cup 2025 experience.”
With a tournament set to be a defining moment for women’s rugby, the stage is now set for the world's best teams to compete for ultimate glory.
[Submitted by Estea Rademeyer]
The stage is set for the Proteas Women’s cricket team as they head into Sunday’s T20 World Cup final against New Zealand’s White Ferns in Dubai. South Africa’s journey to this point has been a blend of grit, determination, and a new mindset that has transformed them into serious contenders. The Proteas have already made history, but there’s a growing belief that they can go one step further and claim their maiden World Cup title.
What stands out about this Proteas side is their firepower at the top of the order. Laura Wolvaardt, the second-leading run-scorer of the tournament, has been magnificent, amassing 190 runs at a steady average of 47.50. She has set the foundation for her team with composed, yet aggressive batting. Alongside her is Tazmin Brits, whose 170 runs have given South Africa an additional weapon up front. But it’s Anneke Bosch who brings the fireworks—her explosive half-century in the semi-finals came at a pace that rattled the opposition and proved that the Proteas’ batting is both versatile and dangerous.
While the batting unit has caught the eye, the Proteas' bowling attack has been just as effective. On the slow, low pitches of Dubai, the bowlers have adjusted brilliantly. Nonkululeko Mlaba has emerged as a key figure, taking 10 wickets at a miserly average of 10.50. Her ability to vary her pace and keep batters guessing has been instrumental in South Africa’s success. Meanwhile, the return of Marizanne Kapp from injury has bolstered the team. Her precision, economy rate of 4.28 runs per over, and cool head under pressure have allowed the Proteas to stifle opposition batters.
Beyond the technical aspects, there is something more intangible but equally important that has transformed this Proteas side: their mindset. The inclusion of Baakier Abrahams as batting coach and former Proteas spinner Paul Adams as spin-bowling consultant has brought a fresh approach. Bosch, for one, has credited Abrahams with revolutionizing her game, while Adams’ influence has gone beyond just technique. His calming presence and emphasis on meditation and visualization have instilled a sense of positivity and fearlessness in the squad.
In the past, South African teams have often faltered at the final hurdle, opting for the safe route when boldness was required. This team, however, has shown that they are willing to take risks and back themselves in pressure situations. Their semi-final performance was a perfect example—they played with intent, aggression, and, most importantly, a belief that they could win.
The Proteas women also embody the spirit of South Africa’s “Rainbow Nation.” This is a team built on diversity, bringing together players from different backgrounds, each with their own story of struggle and triumph. Many of these athletes have had to overcome significant challenges just to make it to the international stage. That shared resilience is what makes this team so special. They aren’t just playing for personal glory; they are playing for their communities, for their country, and for a brighter future.
There’s also the weight of history on their shoulders, but in a good way. South African cricket has come agonizingly close to World Cup glory on more than one occasion, with both the men’s and women’s teams reaching T20 World Cup finals in recent years. But this feels different. The team is peaking at the right time, and their momentum is undeniable. Having experienced heartbreak in the past, they seem more determined than ever to break the curse and finally bring the trophy home.
As they prepare to face the White Ferns, who defeated them in the warm-up match, the Proteas will need to stay focused. But with the form they’ve shown and the newfound confidence coursing through the squad, they go into the final as the team to beat. For South Africa, it’s more than just a cricket match—it’s a chance to inspire a nation and prove that perseverance, diversity, and belief can lead to greatness.
The Proteas Women are ready to make history.
[Submitted by Estea Rademeyer]
As the Proteas Women gear up to take on New Zealand’s White Ferns in Dubai for their first T20 World Cup title, everything indicates that South Africa is poised for success. The excitement is undeniable, and here are five compelling reasons why the Proteas are poised to claim the trophy this Sunday.
1. Firepower in the Batting Lineup
South Africa’s batting unit has displayed remarkable prowess. Laura Wolvaardt stands out as the tournament's leading run scorer, having accumulated 190 runs with an impressive average of 47.50. Tazmin Brits, following closely behind with 170 runs, has been equally formidable at the crease. Add the explosive Anneke Bosch to the mix, who blitzed the quickest half century of the tournament in the semi-finals, and you have a top-order that can post, or run down, match-winning totals. If one of these stars fires again, the Proteas will be difficult to stop.
2. A Multifaceted Bowling Lineup
The bowlers from the Proteas have demonstrated remarkable consistency on the sluggish wickets of Dubai. Nonkululeko Mlaba has claimed ten wickets at an impressive average of 10.50, positioning her as the tournament's second-highest wicket-taker. Meanwhile, Marizanne Kapp's comeback from injury has bolstered the team's performance, highlighted by her exceptional economy rate of 4.28 runs per over. This variety and discipline in the attack have given South Africa the luxury to rotate their bowlers, keeping the opposition under constant pressure. The secret is to keep it as simple as possible.
3. A New Mindset: Calm and Positive
The mental fortitude of South Africa has reached new heights. The inclusion of batting coach Baakier Abrahams and former Proteas spinner Paul Adams has propelled the Proteas to new heights of confidence and composure. Bosch acknowledged Abrahams for “opening a whole new world of batting,” while Adams' the spin bowling consultant’s composed nature has fostered a sense of perspective among the team. Visualization techniques and meditation sessions have proven to be highly effective, enabling the Proteas to compete with purpose and confidence, attributes they prominently showcased during their bold semi-final display.
4. Diversity is their strength.
The diversity of South Africa has consistently been its greatest asset. The Proteas Women’s team, embodying the spirit of the ‘Rainbow Nation,’ unites athletes from diverse backgrounds, each striving for a cause greater than individual aspirations. A significant number of these players have triumphed over real life challenges to attain the pinnacle of cricket, and their united resilience propels them towards success. The variety of perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences within the team fosters adaptability, resilience, and a strong commitment to achieving victory for the country.
5. Third Time’s a Charm
The Proteas have come close to achieving World Cup glory in recent years, as both the Men's and Women's teams reached the finals of the T20 World Cup. Despite the disappointment experienced in previous years, statistical trends indicate that 2024 may very well be the year they achieve success. The Proteas women are ready to break the pattern and bring the cup back.
Although New Zealand managed to secure a narrow victory over South Africa in their recent warm-up match, the Proteas Women appear to be building momentum at a crucial juncture. As their performance reaches new heights and confidence surges, this may very well be the tournament they etch their names in the record books. Its time for Africa.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
The ICC Hall of Fame just got richer with the induction of three cricketing greats as the Class of 2024: England’s Alastair Cook, India’s Neetu David, and South Africa’s AB de Villiers. These legends will be celebrated during a special ceremony in Dubai, marking another chapter in their illustrious careers.
Alastair Cook: England’s Pillar of Resilience
Alastair Cook, who holds the title of England’s highest Test run-scorer, is a name synonymous with grit and determination. His career wasn’t just defined by his runs but by the countless hours he spent frustrating bowlers, breaking down oppositions, and leading England to victories across the globe.
With 12,472 runs in Test cricket, Cook’s achievements are the stuff of legend. Whether it was his imperious back-foot play in Australia or his steely composure in India, Cook delivered when England needed him most. He captained England to two home Ashes victories and was instrumental in their historic win in Australia during the 2010-11 series. His unwavering presence at the crease helped secure two Ashes victories as captain and a memorable series win in India in 2012-13.
Cook’s induction into the ICC Hall of Fame cements his legacy as a cricketer who didn’t just excel but embodied the spirit of English cricket—a relentless pursuit of excellence.
Neetu David: India’s Spin Maestro
Neetu David, a trailblazer for Indian women’s cricket, becomes the first Indian woman inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame in 2024. Her left-arm spin left batters bewildered and captivated fans across the world. David’s legacy includes being the first Indian woman to take 100 wickets in ODIs, a testament to her precision and mastery with the ball.
David’s standout performance came during the 2005 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup, where she topped the wicket-taking charts and led India to their first-ever final. Her eight for 53 against England remains a world record for the best bowling figures in Women’s Test cricket.
Her induction is a well-deserved honor for a player who not only dominated on the field but also inspired a generation of Indian cricketers to take up the game with pride.
AB de Villiers: The Game-Changer
There are few players who redefined the game like South Africa’s AB de Villiers. Known as ‘Mr. 360’ for his innovative and explosive batting, de Villiers was a nightmare for bowlers in every format of the game. With over 20,000 international runs to his name, de Villiers had a career full of record-breaking performances.
In ODIs, he set new standards with the fastest 50, 100, and 150, and his jaw-dropping knocks are still etched in cricketing folklore. But de Villiers wasn’t just about brute force—he was a master tactician with the ability to switch gears seamlessly in Test cricket and explode in limited-overs formats.
His induction is a celebration of a career that left an indelible mark on cricket, a player whose influence stretches beyond the boundaries of South Africa.
A Historic Milestone
This year’s Hall of Fame inductees represent the pinnacle of excellence, each leaving their own unique imprint on the game. From Cook’s endurance, David’s spin wizardry, to de Villiers’ flamboyance, the Class of 2024 encapsulates everything we love about cricket.
The ceremony in Dubai, coinciding with the conclusion of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, will honor these players as they take their rightful place among the legends of the game.
Cricket is a game of records, but it’s also a game of heart. These three cricketers gave their all to the sport, and their names will now echo through history in the ICC Hall of Fame.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
The latest rounds of the 2024/25 T20 Challenge delivered a spectacle of high-scoring encounters, fiery individual performances, and a taste of the intensity building as teams vie for playoff positions.
Warriors Edge Out Dragons in a High-Octane Contest
In Gqeberha, the Dafabet Warriors secured a thrilling 21-run victory over the Auto Investments North West Dragons in a contest packed with explosive batting at St George’s Park. Opting to bat first, the Warriors posted an imposing total of 221/5. Standout performances came from JP King, who smashed 61, and Sinethemba Qeshile, contributing a swift 53. Patrick Kruger’s useful 34 helped maintain the momentum.
The Dragons, in their reply, were led by Janneman Malan’s brilliant unbeaten 111, forming a key partnership of 89 runs with Lesiba Ngoepe (41). Despite their efforts, the Dragons fell just short, closing at 200/3.
Lions Dominate Boland to Continue Winning Streak
Earlier in Paarl, the DP World Lions claimed a commanding six-wicket win over Goldrush Boland. Boland struggled after electing to bat, managing only 129/7, with Gavin Kaplan's steady 53 being the highlight. The Lions' disciplined bowling, spearheaded by Junaid Dawood’s 3/21, restricted Boland's scoring opportunities.
In their chase, Reeza Hendricks anchored the innings with an unbeaten 72, well supported by Zubayr Hamza’s 37, as the Lions comfortably reached 132/4 with two balls to spare.
Knights Triumph as Dolphins Secure First Win
Meanwhile, in Durban, the Knights picked up their second win of the tournament, defeating the Momentum Multiply Titans by 32 runs at SuperSport Park. After being sent in to bat, the Knights posted an imposing 223/6, thanks to the combined efforts of Rilee Rossouw (66), Jacques Snyman (44), and Aubrey Swanepoel (37*). Both Snyman and Swanepoel, who are set to represent South Africa in the upcoming Hong Kong Sixes, showcased their prowess in this high-scoring affair.
The Titans’ chase faltered despite notable contributions from Donovan Ferreira (48), Sibonelo Makhanya (34), and Rivaldo Moonsamy (31), as they finished on 191/6, falling short of the target.
Dolphins Break Losing Streak
At Kingsmead, the Hollywoodbets Dolphins finally broke their losing streak, securing their first win of the competition with a four-wicket victory over World Sports Betting Western Province. Western Province batted first and posted 167/6, anchored by Jonathan Bird’s 53 and valuable contributions from Mihlali Mpongwana (30*) and Valentine Kitime (26).
The Dolphins’ bowling unit, led by Andile Simelane (3/29) and Okuhle Cele (2/35), kept the total in check. In response, the Dolphins chased down the target in 19 overs, with Marques Ackerman playing a match-winning knock of 74, supported by Jason Smith (39) and Bryce Parsons (27*).
T20 Challenge Heats Up
As the competition heads into its final round-robin stages, players and fans alike are eagerly anticipating the upcoming playoffs. Janneman Malan of the Dragons holds the Excellence in Performance Cap as the leading run-scorer, while Junaid Dawood (Lions) holds the yellow cap as the top wicket-taker.
With more exciting contests and fan engagement experiences on the horizon, the battle for playoff spots promises to be a thrilling conclusion to the T20 Challenge season.
Upcoming Matches:
Tuesday, 15 October: Titans vs Dragons at SuperSport Park, Centurion
Wednesday, 16 October: Boland vs Warriors at Boland Park, Paarl
Wednesday, 16 October: Knights vs Dolphins at Mangaung Oval, Bloemfontein
Wednesday, 16 October: Lions vs Western Province at Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
The latest rounds of the 2024/25 T20 Challenge were nothing short of a cricketing spectacle, where every ball seemed to carry the weight of playoff hopes. In Gqeberha, the Dafabet Warriors and Auto Investments North West Dragons locked horns in a pulsating contest that left fans at St George’s Park on the edge of their seats. The Warriors, opting to bat, put up a fierce display of firepower, posting an intimidating 221/5. JP King’s powerful 61 and Sinethemba Qeshile’s steady 53 set the foundation, while Patrick Kruger added crucial runs to keep the momentum alive.
The Dragons, however, weren’t about to roll over. Janneman Malan, with the kind of batting mastery that electrifies a crowd, played a brilliant unbeaten 111. Alongside Lesiba Ngoepe, who contributed a valuable 41, the Dragons came tantalizingly close, building an 89-run partnership that kept hope alive until the final overs. Yet, despite their relentless pursuit, they could only muster 200/3, falling 21 runs short of a remarkable chase.
In another riveting match earlier in Paarl, the DP World Lions flexed their bowling might, toppling Goldrush Boland with clinical precision. After opting to bat first, Boland could only muster 129/7, with Gavin Kaplan’s gritty 53 offering some resistance. But Junaid Dawood’s 3/21 dismantled any hopes of a bigger total. With the pressure off, Reeza Hendricks led the Lions’ chase with an elegant unbeaten 72, ably supported by Zubayr Hamza, who chipped in with 37. The Lions sealed their victory with a cool 132/4, not even needing the final two deliveries.
Meanwhile, in Durban, the Knights and the Momentum Multiply Titans squared off at SuperSport Park in a battle that saw runs flowing like a river. Sent in to bat first, the Knights showed their intent with a total of 223/6. Rilee Rossouw’s authoritative 66 and Jacques Snyman’s 44 were the highlights, but it was Aubrey Swanepoel’s unbeaten 37* that gave the innings its finishing touch. With both Snyman and Swanepoel set to represent South Africa at the Hong Kong Sixes, their performances were a tantalizing preview of what’s to come.
The Titans, despite some spirited batting from Donovan Ferreira (48), Sibonelo Makhanya (34), and Rivaldo Moonsamy (31), found themselves chasing shadows. They ended on 191/6, unable to bridge the gap, falling short by 32 runs.
At Kingsmead, the Hollywoodbets Dolphins were in desperate need of a win – and they got one. World Sports Betting Western Province posted a competitive 167/6, with Jonathan Bird’s smooth 53 leading the charge. Mihlali Mpongwana’s unbeaten 30 and Valentine Kitime’s 26 added to the total. But the Dolphins were undeterred. Led by Marques Ackerman’s match-winning 74, they chased down the target with clinical ease, wrapping up the game in 19 overs with four wickets in hand.
With just a few matches left before the playoffs, the pressure is building on Janneman Malan of the Dragons, donning the Excellence in Performance Cap, remains the tournament’s leading run-scorer, while the battle for the top wicket-taker spot is a fierce contest between Malusi Siboto (Knights) and Junaid Dawood (Lions). The road to the finals is narrowing, and every run, every wicket is now precious as teams fight to secure their place in the T20 Challenge playoffs.
In this cricketing carnival, fans are not just spectators – they are part of the journey, with the ‘Woza Nawe’ call echoing across the country. The anticipation is palpable, and with a few more games to go, the stage is set for an epic conclusion to a tournament that has had it all – drama, passion, and unforgettable moments.T20
[Submitted by Estea Rademeyer]
The Proteas’ upcoming test series against Bangladesh has seen significant changes to the squad ahead of their departure to Dhaka. Temba Bavuma, South Africa's Test captain, has been ruled out of the first Test after scans revealed a left tricep muscle strain. Despite his absence on the field, Bavuma will still travel with the squad to continue his rehabilitation under the supervision of the Proteas medical team. His aim is to return in time for the second Test of the series, which starts on 29 October in Chattogram.
Aiden Markram to Lead in Bavuma’s Absence
In Bavuma’s absence, experienced batter Aiden Markram will captain the side for the first Test. Markram’s leadership will be crucial as the Proteas look to make an early impact in the series at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Dhaka, with the first Test scheduled to begin on 21 October. Markram's previous captaincy experience, combined with his form, positions him as a capable leader to guide the team through this early hurdle.
Dewald Brevis Earns Maiden Test Call-Up
In a significant boost for South Africa’s young talent, 21-year-old Dewald Brevis has been added to the squad as cover. The Momentum Multiply Titans batter impressed selectors with his recent performances for South Africa A, particularly during a four-day match against Sri Lanka A last month, where he registered scores of 49 and 74. This call-up marks Brevis’ first inclusion in the Test squad, and he will be eager to make an impression should the opportunity arise during the series.
Lungi Ngidi Replaces Injured Nandre Burger
Another change to the squad comes in the bowling department, where fast bowler Lungi Ngidi has been named as a replacement for Nandre Burger. Burger has been ruled out of the Bangladesh tour due to a lumbar stress fracture and will now undergo rehabilitation with Cricket South Africa and the World Sports Betting Western Province medical teams. Ngidi’s return strengthens the Proteas' bowling lineup, as his experience and pace are key to dismantling Bangladesh’s batting order in subcontinental conditions.
Preparations At Red-Ball Camp
Ahead of the series, the squad convened for a red-ball camp at the Centre of Excellence in Pretoria from 12 to 14 October. The camp was crucial for the team to adapt their strategies and prepare for the challenging conditions they will face in Bangladesh. The combination of South Africa’s seasoned campaigners and emerging talents like Brevis will be pivotal in ensuring that the Proteas start the series on a positive note despite Bavuma’s absence.
Proteas Test Squad for Bangladesh Tour
Temba Bavuma (captain, DP World Lions)
David Bedingham (World Sports Betting Western Province)
Matthew Breetzke (Dafabet Warriors)
Dewald Brevis (Momentum Multiply Titans)
Tony de Zorzi (World Sports Betting Western Province)
Keshav Maharaj (Hollywoodbets Dolphins)
Aiden Markram (Momentum Multiply Titans, stand-in captain)
Wiaan Mulder (DP World Lions)
Senuran Muthusamy (Dafabet Warriors)
Lungi Ngidi (Momentum Multiply Titans)
Dane Paterson (World Sports Betting Western Province)
Dane Piedt (Knights)
Kagiso Rabada (DP World Lions)
Tristan Stubbs (Dafabet Warriors)
Ryan Rickelton (DP World Lions)
Kyle Verreynne (World Sports Betting Western Province)
Test Series Fixtures (CAT)
1st Test: 21 - 25 October, Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium, Dhaka (6am)
2nd Test: 29 October - 2 November, Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium, Chattogram (6am)
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
