Recap

Match Stats:
Heidelberg – 88/10 in 22 overs
JCC – 89/2 in 11.1 overs
JCC won by 8 wickets

Toss: JCC

The Saturday 1 team retained JCC’s unbeaten home run this season, showing that the team that’s recorded two disappointing games to start the season has the skills and spirit to defend Fortress Hope Village.

The ill effects of the previous night’s rain on the pitch were kept at bay by the covers, although the outfield displayed some of the soggy conditions that were unavoidable following a serious Joburg storm the night before. Nonetheless, play got under way at the appointed 1pm start.

With the opposition sent in to bat, opening bowler Tanaka Chivanga gave the opposition batsmen nothing to hit at and much to avoid as his pace had the opening pair prodding and dodging. TK’s miserly seven runs off his five overs presented the perfect opportunity for first-change bowler Siyanbonga Peter to claim an impressive five-for. His five wickets were taken off seven memorable overs and yielded only 23 runs.

After claiming two wickets in his opening over for a solitary run, Heidelberg were aways fighting a rear-guard action.

JCC’s bowling efforts were backed up by three wickets by Meshen Govender, and the final scalp falling to captain Pranaav Naidoo’s leg-spin.

With a woefully insufficient total of only 88 to defend, Heidelberg found themselves against the ropes from early on in the encounter. JCC openers TK and Sadiq Salehjee’s efforts to sprint to the finish line resulted in two relatively easy wickets for the opposition.

However, demonstrating the value of experience and calm head, Stef le Roux (35 off 23 balls) led the canter to the finish line – in little more than 11 overs – together with a classy 23 off 16 by Sizwe Ziqubu.

The win has certainly restored pride and belief after two tough opening encounters to start the season. Most importantly, JCC’s home ground remains a source of inspiration and bloodied opposition. Long may this continue!