The North West Dragons inexperienced batting line up struggled against the Hollywoodbets Dophins this morning (8 October) in the opening match of Pool C in the CSA T20 Challenge.
The Dragons succumbed to an 8 wicket loss after having only reached a below par 128/8 in their 20 overs after being put in to bat. The Dragons received an injury blow before the match as captain, Nicky van den Bergh, had to withdraw. Senuran Muthusamy took his place as captain for the match.
This continues the slate of injuries to key players Dragons have had to deal with in the lead up to the competition. On the batting side, it was only opener Eben Botha with a quick fire 41 (17) that showed some resistance as most batsman got in only to lose their wickets.
The Dragons will be disappointed having been 63/1 at one stage. The Dolphins pacer, Ottniel Baartman with 4/20 and Bryce Parsons with his spin (2/18) were the standout bowlers for the Dophins.
The Dolphins’ experienced opener, Sarel Erwee was in good touch with a fine 68 (50). NW Dragons debutant, Caleb Seleka, got the first wicket for his side, bowling Thamsanga Kumalo for 12.
The Dolphins, showed why they are one of the favourites for the title as they just had to much firepower on the day, hitting boundaries at regular intervals to ease to the target in 15.1 overs.
The Dragons will now need to win the next two matches against the SA u.19 and Eastern Storm side to progress to the playoffs.
