Northern Cape Heat on top in CSA 4-day clash against Mpumalanga Rhinos in White River

THE NORTHERN Cape Heat find themselves in a good position, but still with quite a bit to do to pull off a win against the Mpumalanga Rhinos in their CSA 4-Day Series Division 2 clash in White River.

With no play possible on day one, the Heat ended the second day on 155/3, boosted their total to 268 on the third day, and then had the hosts all out for 164 by close of play on Saturday.

After winning the toss, the Rhinos had sent the Heat in to bat, and initially thought they had made the right decision when Modiri Litheko was dismissed for one run, after facing 18 nervy balls. However, opening partner Ernest Kemm dug in his heels to score a battling 58 (201 balls, 5x4s) to keep the hosts’ bowlers at bay.

When Cole Abrahams marched to the crease, everything changed. Abrahams eventually scored 129 (240 balls, 7x4s), and his innings blunted the Rhinos’ attack.

Kurtlyn Mannikam was the Rhinos’ best bowler, returning figures of 6/80 in 21 overs.

The hosts’ top order all made starts in their reply, but none, except for Karabo Mogotsi (49) could kick on. Hardus Viljoen (3/40) and Zakhele Qwabe (3/40) were the Heat’s best bowlers, while Kemm (2/34) also did his bit with ball in hand.

Day four kicks off on Sunday with Mpumalanga still trailing their visitors by 104 runs, and the Heat wondering if they can wrap up the game before end of play, or before the heavens open again, ending their charge to victory.