The Pretoria Capitals (PC) had their backs against the wall heading into their SA20 clash against cross-town rivals Joburg Super Kings (JSK) on Tuesday, but to their credit they came out of the contest at SuperSport Park, in Centurion, with flying colours.
PC needed a win to keep their hopes of qualifying for the playoffs alive, and they did that in fine style.
The hosts bundled out JSK for 99, and then chased down the victory target without much trouble with six wickets and a full eight overs remaining.
The victory meant the fifth-placed PC pulled within a point of the 15 of JSK, with two group games remaining for both sides.
Welcome relief
PC skipper and Proteas player Kyle Verreynne said the triumph came as a welcome relief.
“It's been a tough couple of days, so I'm pleased to get the bonus point. We were nice and clinical with the ball and the guys finishing it off with the bat was pleasing,” captain Verreynne said.
“We’ve only played two games at home earlier, so it was good to come back. There was nice energy out there.”
Ever the optimist, Verreynne said it would be important that his charges adopted a positive attitude in their final two matches before possibly entering the playoffs where they hoped to make it all the way to the final.
“In theory, we have two games left but it can become five games. We need to enjoy our game and play with a smile on our faces and that will hold us in good stead for the next two games.”