Gurbaz shines, but Durban Super Giant’s quality saw them through at Kingsmead

Jehran Naidoo

A Pretoria Capital’s victory seemed all but certain after the 12th over against the Durban’s Super Giants in the second T20 during season three of the SA20 league at Kingsmead Stadium on Friday night.

This largely hinged on the fact that opening batters Ramunullah Gurbaz and Will Jacks had already put up 154 runs of the 210 needed to win the match.

With hot and humid conditions cast over Durban, both teams opted to use spin up front with some pace hither thither. Captain Keshav Maharaj won the toss and decided to bat first.

The 209 put up by DSG came from contributions by Kane Williamson, 60 from 40, Bryce Parsons, 47 from 28 and Wiaan Mulder, 49 from 19.

A pin could be heard falling inside Kingsmead as Gurbaz thrashed DSG bowlers all over the park, before finally falling prey to Noor Ahmed in the 13th over.

Gurbaz said playing alongside Jacks gave him confidence to play big.

“I just always try to play my natural game and be positive. The wicket was not that difficult but not that easy as well. We had a great start and were in the game,” said Gurbaz.

“We were positive and took them on early on. Jacks was unbelievable and made it easy for me as well in the start. He smashed some good shots and gave me confidence as well.

“I think we batted really well but unfortunately we lost the game. Hopefully we become stronger in the next game.”

Gurbaz’s solo effort was no match for the composure the DSG captain Keshav Maharaj and tail end bowlers exhibited.

Despite their hopes of winning sinking into the abyss that was the Capitals’ opening partnership, the slow fall of wickets restored hope in the home team and crowd.

The last five overs of the game were, arguably, the most dramatic. Because the tides turned against the Capitals as wickets continued to fall cheaply.

From being 154/0 after 12 overs, the Capitals were at 189/4 after 17 overs.

Noor Ahmad was the pick of the DSG bowlers with his ‘pacey’ leg-break spin, claiming 2/34 from his four overs.

Wiaan Mulder told the media that to make it to the play-offs required experience in tight games like this one.

“I think we were out when it reached 42 from 42 balls. So to win a game like this, like I said earlier, sums up what this team is about,” said Mulder.

“We got so many experienced players. Having someone like Kane, Noor and guys who play in leagues all over the world, right here in our team, just shows the composure.

“Secondly, the understanding of ways to win. (Chris) Woakes coming back after his first two overs just shows that never-say-die attitude. I think that’s how we are going to play going forward.”

The addition of Williamson to the DSG line-up appears to have a positive impact on the players, especially among the youth in the side.

Mulder said learning from a player like Williamson was a great experience.

“He doesn’t say much but he is such a level headed person and for someone like me (to be around him), that is quite emotional, it's nice to have him on the other side,” said Mulder.

“He kept it simple and told me to play the ball on merit and if it's in my area, take it on.”

The two sides meet again on Sunday in Tshwane at 3.30pm.