The opening clash of the highly anticipated Betway SA20 Season 2 is set to unfold at St George’s Park this Wednesday, marking the start of what promises to be an enthralling tournament.

Sunrisers Eastern Cape, the reigning champions, will face a significant challenge in their quest to defend their title as they square off against Joburg Super Kings. The clash holds added weight as the Super Kings seek to avenge their semifinal defeat to the Sunrisers at Centurion in the previous season.

The team from Johannesburg has tasted success at this iconic stadium before, triumphing in Gqeberha last season and securing victories in both group matches, including a win over the Sunrisers at the Wanderers.

This inaugural match pledges to be a thrilling spectacle, with both sides boasting an array of talented players that promise exciting matchups. Notably, both teams feature adept young fast bowlers, with Marco Jansen leading the attack for Sunrisers Eastern Cape, and Gerald Coetzee and Nandre Burger spearheading the JSK bowling unit.

Burger, eager to form a formidable opening bowling partnership with Coetzee, expressed his anticipation pending his teammate's recovery from a recent pelvic inflammation that sidelined him from the recent Test against India at Newlands.

The absence of the influential Roelof van der Merwe in Season 2 will be felt by the Sunrisers. However, coach Adrian Birrell strategically reinforced the team by bringing back Simon Harmer to the Eastern Cape. Harmer, known for his tenacity on the field, is expected to bring a competitive edge to the Sunrisers, having been part of the first trade in the League.

Despite the excitement surrounding the defending champions, Harmer emphasized the team's focus on winning the trophy this year rather than solely defending their title. He reflected on his cricketing journey, highlighting his affinity for Gqeberha, where his career took flight as a young player.

Unfortunately, the Sunrisers have encountered setbacks with the late withdrawals of Sisanda Magala and Craig Overton due to injury. Their absence has prompted the inclusion of hard-hitting all-rounder Patrick Kruger in the squad.

St George’s Park is expected to host a vibrant and lively atmosphere as witnessed during the previous season, with Grammy Award-winning Zakes Bantwini headlining the pre-match festivities supported by a blend of electronic dance music and violin by Veranda Panda.

The pre-match entertainment is scheduled to commence at 4:20 pm, leading up to the match kick-off at 5:30 pm. Gates will open at 2:30 pm, allowing fans early access ahead of the opening ceremony.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]