Sikandar Raza spins Paarl Royals to historic first win over MI Cape Town at Newlands

Paarl Royals scripted history at Newlands on Sunday, defeating coastal rivals MI Cape Town at the venue for the first time with a commanding seven-wicket bonus-point win in SA20 Season 4.

After suffering three previous defeats under the shadow of Table Mountain, the Royals completed a Western Cape derby double to move into second place on the points table with 13 points, just two adrift of leaders Joburg Super Kings.



Zimbabwe allrounder Sikandar Raza continued his stunning start for the Royals, delivering a decisive spell of 4/13 from four overs. The off-spinner followed up his debut figures of 3/27 with another match-winning performance, dismantling MI Cape Town’s batting line-up.

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Raza was well supported by teenage rookie Nqobani Mokoena, who impressed with 2/10, and the experienced Ottneil Baartman, whose 2/8 ensured MI Cape Town were bundled out for just 88 — their lowest total in the history of the competition.

In the chase, the Royals lost Lhuan-dre Pretorius early to Trent Boult, but a steady 54-run second-wicket partnership between Asa Tribe and Rubin Hermann quickly put the visitors in control. Tribe top-scored with a composed 34, striking three fours and two sixes, while Hermann chipped in with 18.

Though both batters fell before the target was reached, Kyle Verreynne and captain David Miller calmly guided the Royals home without further damage, sealing the bonus point and local bragging rights.

Raza was adjudged player of the match for his four-wicket haul.

"It's nice to win the game and know your contribution in a win feels more special. I've heard great things about this tournament but due to clashes I couldn't come in year 2 or 3. When I talk to the SA boys in the circuit, they've all said good things about it. Can't ask for more with this POTM award," said Raza.


"Miller, as a captain, he's always there when you're bowling and he's always calm. It rubs off on the bowlers too. He doesn't speak much but lets his bat and captaincy do the talking. I've played a lot against him. Wonderful to play with him."

Brief Scores MI Cape Town: 88 all out in 18.4 overs (Reeza Hendricks 18; Sikandar Raza 4/13, Ottneil Baartman 2/8, Nqobani Mokoena 2/10)
Paarl Royals: 90 for 3 in 13 overs (Asa Tribe 34, David Miller 19 not out; Corbin Bosch 1/9)


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