Match Center

That's a wrap! The SA20 has reached its grand finale, and what a thrilling conclusion it promises to be! The stage is set for a blockbuster clash between MI Cape Town and Sunrisers Eastern Cape on February 8th at 7 pm IST (1:30 pm GMT). Join us an hour early for pre-match updates, analysis, and buildup. We'll bring you all the excitement, insights, and opinions to get you ready for the big finale! Until then, it's goodbye from us! Cheers!

Aiden Markram, the skipper of Sunrisers Eastern Cape, highlighted the importance of utilizing the Powerplay effectively, citing it as a massive confidence booster for his team. He's thrilled that they were able to tick that box ahead of the all-important Final. Aiden humbly admitted that he's not the best at reading surfaces, but he's confident that his team will be well-prepared to adapt to any conditions that come their way in the Final. This flexibility and positive mindset will undoubtedly serve them well as they head into the championship decider.

Paarl Royals skipper David Miller reflected on his team's performance, acknowledging that they entered the contest without momentum, having suffered three consecutive defeats. However, he emphasized that this was a new game, and they simply came up short against a better opponent on the day. Miller expressed pride in his team's fighting spirit, highlighting the positives from their campaign. He specifically mentioned the impressive emergence of young talents Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Rubin Hermann, and Kwena Maphaka, who have risen through the ranks and made significant contributions to the team.

Tony de Zorzi of Sunrisers Eastern Cape is the PLAYER OF THE MATCH. Tony expressed his gratitude to the team management for showing faith in him. He was thrilled to have repaid that trust with a match-winning performance. Tony admitted that he was surprised to find a place in the starting XI, making his achievement even more satisfying. He praised the team's overall condition, stating that they're in perfect shape heading into the Final. Exuding confidence, Tony believes that the team has the depth and talent to win the championship. He's optimistic that different players will step up in the Final, ensuring a triumphant outcome for Sunrisers Eastern Cape.

Stay tuned for the presentation...

Earlier in the game, Paarl Royals posted a decent total of 175 runs, but it was a case of what could have been, as they were on track for a 200-plus score before middle-order wickets halted their momentum. Rubin Hermann top-scored with a brilliant 81, while Lhuan-dre Pretorius chipped in with a valuable half-century. Andile Phehlukwayo provided a late flourish, scoring 22 runs off just 11 deliveries. The Sunrisers Eastern Cape bowling unit shared the spoils, with Craig Overton, Marco Jansen, Ottneil Baartman, and Aiden Markram all taking one wicket each. The extent of Ottneil Baartman's injury which he sustained while bowling will be key for SEC as he is one of their main assets.

Paarl's bowling, particularly their spin department, failed to make a significant impact, allowing SEC's batters to dominate. Kwena Maphaka and Dunith Wellalage took one apiece. With this win, Sunrisers Eastern Cape moves one step closer to a historic three-peat, setting up a thrilling Grand Final against MI Cape Town!

Despite losing David Bedingham early, Tony de Zorzi and Jordan Hermann took charge, putting the Paarl bowlers under immense pressure. The duo's 111-run partnership was the game-changer, taking the sting out of the contest. Tony top-scored with a blistering 78, while Jordan played a brilliant supporting role, guiding his team home with an unbeaten 69.

THE SUNRISERS EASTERN CAPE MARCH ON! Sunrisers Eastern Cape keeps their three-peat dreams alive with a convincing win over Paarl Royals, chasing down a solid total with ease.

FOUR! THE CHASE FOR 3-PEAT IS ON! Full toss around off, Aiden Markram punches this down to deep cover and finds the fence. Sunrisers Eastern Cape has defeated Paarl Royals by 8 wickets.

OUT! lbw b Kwena Maphaka.

Given out on-field but Aiden Markram has sent this upstairs. The UltraEdge shows a spike as the ball is next to Aiden's bat and Sunrisers Eastern Cape's skipper survives. Full toss around leg, Aiden Markram goes for the on-drive but misses a clean connecting off the bat. The umpire though gives him out after an appeal from the Paarl players but technology comes to Aiden Markram's aid.

Short of a length around middle and leg, Jordan Hermann slaps this to deep mid-wicket for two.

Length dragged back around leg, Jordan Hermann goes for the sweep but doesn't connect.

Fuller around leg, Jordan Hermann punches this back to the bowler.

SIX! UP AND OVER FOR SIX! Short of a length around middle and leg, Jordan Hermann clears his front leg and slogs this up and over Mitchell Owen at long on for a huge six. Just 5 needed now.

Darted into the leg of Jordan. The batter ends up jamming it out.