The two horse race between the bizhub Highveld Lions and Cape Cobras for the 4-Day Franchise series title is hotting up with the final round of matches taking place at Senwes Park in Potchefstroom and at the Pietermaritzburg Oval respectively.

The bizhub Highveld Lions are aiming to get a victory against the Warrior to secure domestic glory, whilst the Cape Cobras will look to get the upper hand against the Dolphins. Only a mere 3 points separate the Liosn and Dolphins and these two matches will decide the title this year.

The Lions ended the first day (yesterday) on 409/8 with Bjorn Fortuin (157* off 206 balls ) and Delano Potgieter (145 off 176 balls) the heroes for their side. The two shared in a 301-run stand to take the game away from the Warriors after they had the hosts on the ropes at 96/6 in the morning session. Seamer, Glenton Stuurman was the chief destroyer picking up 4/87 in a fiery opening spell.

Potgieter and Fortuin though rescued the situation and the Lions title charge in a sense, as their patient yet aggressive batting eased the grip that the Warriors had on the match.

The Lions are now in an excellent position and will look to their bowling attack of Nandré Burgre, Malusi Siboto, Nono Pongolo and Fortuin to make inroads on day 2.

The Lions will also be keeping an eye on proceedings between the Dolphins and Cape Cobras in Pietermaritzburg with the Dophins currently on 301/6 in their first innings. The Cobras bowlers in Vernon Philander, Dane Piedt and Dane Paterson will look to wrap things up quickly this morning in order for their batsman to pile on the runs.

There is definitely everything to play for in these next three exciting days of franchise cricket.

Day 1 photos: Lions vs Warriors: (Photos – Wouter Pienaar)