The Warriors qualified for the semi-finals of the Ram Slam T20 tournament at the bizhub Highveld Lions expense with a narrow 4-run Duckworth Lewis victory at Senwes Park last Friday. The Warriors completed the win largely to a solid batting performance from captain Jon-Jon Smuts (69*) and a superb bowling performance from Andrew Birch (1/11) and Smuts (1/9) in the rain shortened match.
This defeat was a sad sight for local Potchefstroomers who braved the rain throughout to see their heroes in action. One though had a feeling that this match was set up for a twist or two, especially when the ominous storm clouds gathered around the ground.
The Warriors won the toss and elected to bat first, but the Lions’ bowlers though struck early to reduce the Warriors to 2/1 as Parnell went for 1 thanks to the bowling of spinner Bjorn Fortuin. Warriors’ captain Jon-Jon Smuts though kept the ball rolling with a fine knock of 69 not out. The Warriors’ other main danger man was Christiaan Jonker as he smashed the ball to all parts, including a massive six that went straight into the direction of the president’s suite on the second floor.
The Warriors finished their innings on 133/4 after 17.1 overs, as the rain came pelting down.
When the match resumed, the Lions needed a revised total of 96 from 10 overs to win.
The Lions’ in form batsman, Reeza Hendricks anchored the innings with 41 not out, but it was all in vain as he could not find a willing partner. Wickets fell at regular intervals and some needless dismissals eventually curtailed the Lions’ charge as they finished on 92/7 after 10 overs.
The Lions have not had the best of luck with the weather as they were ultimately bundled out of the competition after a no-result on Sunday against the Knights as rain brought the curtain down on their campaign.

Photos: Wouter Pienaar