Deepak Anand proved the x-factor in the KZN Dolphins’ impressive unbeaten run to the Veterans Cricket Association of South Africa over-50s title at Willowmoore Park.

A typical white-ball aggressor with the ability to exploit early fielding restrictions, the right-hander was at his destructive best in the May 15 final against Border Veterans. His 91 off 75 balls, featuring 14 fours and a six, powered the Dolphins to a five-wicket victory over the defending champions.

Anand’s class was evident throughout the tournament, following up earlier scores of 127, 51 and 37. But it was his adaptability in the final – the Dolphins’ first chase of the competition – and his synergy with opening partner Warren Gray that ultimately broke Border’s resistance.

The pair laid the perfect platform with a commanding 148-run opening stand. Border’s task was made even tougher by the absence of key bowler Justin Price, who limped off with a suspected hamstring injury, leaving their attack exposed.

Chasing 263 after Border posted 262/8 in 45 overs, Anand signalled intent immediately, dispatching the first ball for four. Together with Gray, he dominated the power play, scoring at over 11 runs per over.

Anand reached his half-century off just 36 balls in the 11th over.

At the drinks break, the Dolphins were cruising at 123/0 – a stark contrast to Border’s 84/1 at the same stage – underlining the dominance of the opening pair.

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Anand continued to score freely until Dan Taylor provided the breakthrough, with Daniel Stephen taking the catch to end his innings on 91. He finished the tournament with 306 runs at an average of 76.50 and a strike rate of 116.35.

Gray then took control, adding 70 for the second wicket with Grant Durose. His well-crafted 70 off 66 balls (eight fours and a six) left the Dolphins in a strong position at 193/2.

Border clawed back through Hayden Luck, who struck twice in quick succession, removing Charles Webber and Duncan Miller. Andrew Emslie added to the pressure by trapping Adhir Maharaj, as the Dolphins briefly stumbled, losing four wickets for 32 runs.

However, Durose (53 off 59*) held firm. Alongside Gary Bishop, he guided the Dolphins home with an unbroken 38-run stand for the sixth wicket, sealing victory with 19 balls to spare.

Earlier, Border had started confidently, reaching 84/1 after 15 overs. But the Dolphins’ spinners tightened the screws in the middle overs, triggering regular wickets and stalling momentum.

Robin Knott top-scored with 52 off 44 balls, while Russell Bennett contributed an unbeaten 51 off 52.

Despite their efforts, Border’s total proved insufficient against a Dolphins side that combined composure with calculated aggression to claim the title.

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