Dolphins banking on Kingsmead advantage for CSA T20 play-off clash with Western Province
CSA T20 Challenge
Khaya Zondo is likely to return to the Dolphins’ line-up as the experienced opener looks to lead his side to CSA T20 play-off success at Kingsmead against the WP on Wednesday. Photo: Backpagepix
Image: Backpagepix
Homeground advantage for the Dolphins in the second CSA T20 Challenge play-off, against the Western Province, might provide the extra spice the Durban outfit needs to reach the finals, according to coach Quinton Friend.
The last time these two teams met was at Newlands, where Province handed the Dolphins a five-wicket defeat. Friend, however, reiterated his side were not at their best last week Sunday as they were missing three crucial players in Khaya Zondo, Jason Smith and Bryce Parsons.
Now, with the Dolphins back to full strength, Friend believes Wednesday’s clash at Kingsmead is set to be an epic encounter. The Dolphins go into the match with momentum, having won their last two games against the Titans and Lions, respectively.
“Homeground advantage could play a massive part (Wednesday)," said Friend on Tuesday.
"We are really happy that we qualified for the play-offs and got a home-game eliminator. We also urge the Durban faithful to come out and support our boys again.
“If I look back to the last time we played WP, I don’t think we batted well at all," Friend added.
"We know that we are a lot better than that as a team and we had a few players out in that game who are back now. Guys like Jason, Khaya and Bryce — there are a lot more who have returned — and I’m confident that they will get us over the line,” Friend said.
Underestimating an opponent, especially with such high stakes on the line, would be a grave mistake, Friend explained, with 110% effort required to book their seat in the second qualifier match.
“Sunday (a two wicket victory over the Lions) was a really big win for us but we know the job is not done. We are going to give it our best to make sure we get to Qualifier 2 on Friday. There’s just some fine-tuning to be made to make sure we play from the front foot.
“WP are a good side, but they must know that it’s a different challenge compared to playing on your home ground,” Friend added.
Tuesday night's Qualifier 1 – between Boland and the Warriors – will decide the opposition of Friday's encounter. The final is scheduled for Sunday.