This will be a crucial game for the Knights as they continue their search for a first home victory. Province, however, are not invincible – they suffered a 40-run defeat to the Lions in their opening match at the Wanderers. On Wednesday, they bounced back with a convincing seven-wicket win over the North West Dragons at Newlands in Cape Town.

The Knights, meanwhile, gained some valuable time in the middle on Wednesday during their clash against the Warriors, which was ultimately declared a no-result due to rain.

Dominic Hendricks. Photo: Morgan Piek

Dian Forrester, who scored an unbeaten 123 against the Warriors, told OFM Sport staying composed at the crease was key – something he managed to do alongside Patrick Botha, who played a fantastic knock of 58.

“We just tried to give ourselves a chance towards the backend, put together a solid 20-over partnership, and then see where we could take it,” said Forrester on his remarkable 123-run stand with Botha.

“The message was simple – stay calm. If you see your partner panicking, just walk over and remind them to keep their cool. We also aimed to lift the team’s intent a bit. Today, it really came together for both of us, and Pat played a brilliant innings.”

Province, the reigning champions, have named a strong squad for their trip to the Free State.

Proteas stars George Linde, David Bedingham, Dane Paterson, Mihlali Mpongwana, and Kyle Verreynne have all made the journey to Bloemfontein for the third-round encounter. Verreynne, who was in Pakistan with the national team last week, will captain the side.

Play at the Mangaung Oval is scheduled to start at 13:00. On Sunday, the Lions will take on the North West Dragons at the Wanderers, while the Titans face the Dolphins at SuperSport Park.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek dg