Brilliant knocks from Blake Schraader (39) and Sean Phillips (44) sent Tuks across the line with a six wickets against Pukke who despite ferocious home support faltered against the champions.

Tuks almost left it too late, but chose the Powerplay Plus at the best time possible for a fantastic victory to clinch the match in the final 5 overs.

A mammoth over of 24 runs was all it took as Tuks hit overdrive when it mattered most to snatch the victory from Pukke’s grasp.

Janneman Malan (39) was one of NWU Pukke’s best batsmen as he played a well-constructed innings blending caution with aggression.

Andre Malan and Marques Ackerman combined for a glorious 89 run partnership to lay the foundation for their big score of 160/6.

Pukke needed a good start in their total defence, and began with skipper Wihan Lubbe opening the bowling with spin to restrict the scoring. It was however pace bowler JP le Roux who got the breakthrough after tremendous diving catch from Lubbe set the example of things to come at 9/1.

Le Roux had a number of special balls in his locker as he delivered with economical figures of 4-1-8-2.

This set the tone for the rest of the innings as Pukke’s bowlers bowled to their strengths in the first 10 overs. The second 10 overs was a different story as Tuks took control with great batting.

Pukke will now look to rebound against Maties and learn from their mistakes in this encounter. Tuks next take on UCT tomorrow and will want continue their good form.

FNB Best Bowler: JP Le Roux – NWU-Puk

Edgars Active – Best Batsman – Blake Schraader – UP-Tuks

Steers Best Catch – Wihan Lubbe – NWU-Puk

Samsung Man of the match: Blake Schraader – UP-Tuks