This game will be the log leader’s last home game before the playoffs, and it will also be the penultimate game in which they have the services of the world’s leading Test batter, Joe Root. 

While the Royals have already ensured they will be in the playoffs, there is still a lot to play for, and they will want to make the most of Root's services while they still can as they seek to finish at the top.

The 34-year-old Root has been a major factor in the Royals’ success thus far, and his absence will be felt. The player who spent a portion of his childhood in Bloemfontein and attended St Andrews’ School, has been invaluable with 279 runs in seven innings, which makes him the leading run-scorer, and he has also taken five wickets.

The Royals coach, Trevor Penney, said losing Root will be a big blow, but it will, however, create opportunities for other players. “Everyone in the squad is fit - it’s just, we will lose Joe Root because he is off to go and join England after the ninth game,” said the former Zimbabwean international.

“That’s a big loss right there because this off-spinner has been fantastic for us as well. So yeah, but we’ve got guys like Sam Hain and we’re looking elsewhere maybe to see if we can get another replacement in.

Joe Root. Photo: Cricinfo

“But it seems to be a nice squad and everybody’s gelled nicely together, so hopefully when Root goes, someone can jump in.”

The Durban Super Giants themselves will be desperate to secure just a second win of the captain. They are currently at the bottom of the log with eight points, but two of their games also ended with no result due to rain.

Monday’s game between the Royals and DSG at Boland Park is scheduled to start at 17:30.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cg