Titans thump Knights in Benoni

The hosts, in their first match of the new domestic cricket season in Benoni, strolled to an emphatic eight-wicket victory over the Knights, with a positive bowling performance spearheaded by Marchant de Lange.

Titans skipper Henry Davids won the toss and elected to bowl.

This move paid massive dividends, as the Titans bowlers made the most of the variable bounce of the inconsistent Willowmoore Park pitch.

The fast bowler had the top order on the back foot early on, and his figures of 4/29 in 7.2 overs proved his value to the Titans.

De Lange was ably backed by fellow bowlers Ethy Mbhalati, Rowan Richards and David Wiese, a former Actonville Spurs player, who restricted Nicky Boje’s Knights to a score of 90 all out in 27.2 overs.

Early wickets were required from the Knights in order to stay in the match, and Proteas all-rounder Ryan McLaren gave the visitors some hope when he managed to claim opener Davids’ wicket for three runs.

The Titans, however, comfortably steered the ship in the right direction, courtesy of a half-century partnership, off 74 deliveries, by Jacques Rudolph and Heino Kuhn.

Kuhn was bowled for 43 with the game virtually wrapped up, and Rudolph retired hurt when he was painfully struck on the hand.

The star with the ball, de Lange, was promoted up the order to finish off the innings, with the hosts needing only seven runs to secure the win.

He smashed a six off the bowling of Tumi Masekela, to guide the Titans to the big win.

Sahara Willowmoore Park will host its second Momentum One-Day Cup match on Friday, November 1, when the Titans host the Sunfoil Dolphins.

This game promises to be exhilaratingly exciting and cricket fans are encouraged to attend.

The match will begin at 3pm.