On Saturday the Knights resumed their first innings on 167/7 and managed to add just 24 more runs before being bowled out for 191.

Aaron Phangiso top-scored for the Knights with 74, while Patrick Botha contributed 31. Former Knights fast bowler Beyers Swanepoel was the standout performer for the Warriors, taking 6/30 in 21 overs, including 12 maidens. Christopher King also impressed, claiming 3/46 in 19.4 overs.

Matthew de Villiers. Photo: Herald

The Warriors’ second innings got off to a slow start, with Jordan Hermann dismissed for 17 and Jiveshan Pillay for 15, leaving the score at 56/2. However, a 220-run partnership for the third wicket between Matthew de Villiers and JP King turned the match firmly in the Warriors’ favour.

King made 64 before being caught by Lesego Senokwane off the bowling of Malusi Siboto. At the close of play, De Villiers remained unbeaten on 194, having faced 208 deliveries and struck 27 fours.

Proteas all-rounder and former Knights player Patrick Kruger was at the crease with De Villiers on 17* when stumps were called, with the Warriors on 340/4.

Dane Piedt. Photo: Morgan Piek

In a desperate bid to take wickets, the Knights used seven bowlers. Their captain, Dane Piedt, was the most successful, returning figures of 1/56 in 16 overs, while Tiaan van Vuuren, Siboto, and Dian Forrester each claimed a wicket.

The fourth and final day will begin on Sunday at 10:00 with the Warriors holding a 320-run lead and six wickets in hand.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek dg