Two superb victories, a nail biting super over loss and a humbling defeat are what the North West Dragons have to show for after the first week of CSA T20 Cup action at St George’s Park in Gqeberha.

The Dragons latest’ defeat hurt the most as they were bowled out for just 80 in their 84-run loss against Western Province this past Tuesday, 15 February.

The Dragons bowlers had WP at 134/8 at one stage in the first innings, but Wayne Parnell scored a quick fire 33 (17) to take WP to 164/8 in their 20 overs. The unbeaten WP them demolished the NW batting line-up to take their fourth victory of the competition.

The Dragons started with two wins against the Lions and Knights, but losses against the Boland Rocks and Western Province have put them from top of the log to fourth spot in the battle for semi-final places. The Dragons best bowlers have been their spinners, Caleb Seleka, Senuran Muthusamy and JD Diseko. Muthusamy has been the most economical with 6 wickets at an economy of 4.58.

Wesley Marshall has shown glimpses of potential up front, whilst Protea, Dwaine Pretorius and Delano Potgieter has also shown good form with the bat with averages in the high 30’s. The Dragons next match is against the Dolphins in a must win match for the Dragons if they want to stay on course for a semi-final spot. Only one point separates the two sides and with only four matches to go, either side would want to build momentum ahead of the knockout rounds.

A loss will make progress difficult as teams will then need to rely on other sides to eliminate semi-final opposition.

The Dolphins are a tricky side with plenty of talent such as Proteas, David Miller, Daryn Dupavillon and Keegan Petersen in their ranks.

The Dragons will need to put on their A-game as the business end of the competition approaches.