The Knights are still in the running to reach the semi-finals following their outstanding win against the Titans in Centurion on Sunday. This will require two strong performances against the Dolphins at home, as well as against Western Province at Newlands on Friday night. A favour or two by other teams will also go a long way in helping the Free State’s cause.

The captain Aaron Phangiso. Photo: Morgan Piek

The Dolphins in turn got off the mark in the competition with a four-wicket win against Western Province, and despite it being their first win, mathematically they can also reach the semi-finals, but this will be a tough task.

The Free State coach, JP Triegaardt, told OFM Sport if they execute with bat and ball the points will come. “In the first two games obviously, we gave those games away.” 

“That had to be wins, but like you said, we learned a lot from it and it was early doors for us so it was actually quite nice coming into this game now. There are a lot of positives going into the game, to be honest.”

“I think the big thing for us once again is to make sure that our bowling department continues doing what they have been doing. I think our plans and our execution have gone really well. But once again it’s our batting that had let us down in the end. If we can get that right, I think we’ll find ourselves on the right side.”

Triegaardt added it is important for them to record a first win at home following defeats to the North West Dragons and Lions in Bloemfontein.

“The way we started is a bit disappointing, to be honest, but at the end of the day it’s about how you end. I think we’re focusing on that. There is an opportunity for us to get into the semi-finals but we don’t want to look too far ahead.

Garnett Tarr and Johan van Dyk. Photo: Morgan Piek

“We have a game on Wednesday against the Dolphins, and I think it’s going to be another tough one for us.

“The big thing for us is to try and chase well at home – we’ve been struggling. We’ve been really good being away from home, but the ultimate thing here for us is to make sure that we get the win on Wednesday against the Dolphins.”

Wednesday’s game at the Mangaung Oval is scheduled to start at 18:00.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek dg