Senwes Park will be turned into a T20 amphitheatre on Sunday 20 November when the Bizhub Highveld Lions and the Cape Cobras face-off in a North-South rivalry in the domestic T20 challenge.

Rassie van der Dussen versus Rory Kleinveldt, Hardus Viljoen vs Richardt Levi and Eddie Leie vs Kieron Pollard are just some of the expected gladiatorial match-ups that will occur come match day.

Both sides recorded opening round losses, though, and will be desperate to get some momentum going in the competition.

The Lions succumbed to a 42-run loss against the Titans at the Wanderers last Saturday, with only Van der Dussen showing form with a decent half-century.

The Cobras had similar problems in their match against the Knights, with a 38-run loss. Keegan Petersen top-scored with 39 while most of their bowlers were smashed to all parts of the ground.

The Lions have a fairly new looking squad and have instilled their faith in new leadership this season with the experienced Proteas spinner, Aaron Phangiso, taking the captain’s armband and the Potchefstroomer, Nicky van den Bergh, being rewarded with vice-captain duties.

Cape Cobras stalwart, Justin Ontong, will lead his side in this encounter and, with the likes of the big hitting Levi and Pollard in their ranks, cannot be underestimated.

The last time these two sides met in a T20 competition was in 2015 when the Cape Cobras clinched a 5-wicket victory at the Wanderers, mainly due to Wayne Parnell’s blistering 99.

The Lions will definitely look to set the record straight and what better time and place than on North West Cricket’s pristine grounds.

T20 cricket is always an exciting prospect at Senwes Park with balls flying to all corners of the grounds on a good batting pitch. Key players:

Lions:

1)Rassie van der Dussen

The hard-hitting right-hander has already kicked off his T20 season for the Lions with a belligerent half century. Van der Dussen is a joy to watch when he gets going and the best way to stop the runs will be to get him out early on.

2)Eddie Leie

The leg spin of Eddie Leie has proven to be highly successful in T20 cricket and the Ikageng born spinner will want to do his best on his home turf.

A few good overs from Leie will certainly build the pressure and the way the Cobras handle his bowling spell will go a long way to deciding the match.

3)Hardus Viljoen

This energetic bowler has shown a lot of heart and fight this year and, although primarily in the side as a bowler, he has already shown glimpses of his big hitting as well. His 41 against the Titans last Saturday was a glimpse of his proficiency with the bat.

Cobras:

1) Rory Kleinveldt

The ever reliable all-rounder will be a menace, with his accurate bowling and lower order hitting – expect him to make an impact with, bat, ball or both.

2) Kieron Pollard

The big West Indian has yet to fire on all cylinders and Senwes Park may just be to his liking with his ability to clear any boundary in the world. Put on your hard hats because it might just be raining sixes.

3) George Linde

The tall left-arm spinner will be a handful for the Lions if he gets his rhythm right. Also more than handy with the willow and will look to score quick runs at the back end of the innings.