Diamantveld dominates at Paarl Boys’ High Cricket Festival

Danie van der Lith|Published 1 month ago

Diamantveld's first cricket team. Picture: Facebook

Diamantveld’s cricket teams, including the First XI and Under-15 squads, shone brightly at the Paarl Boys' High Cricket Festival, securing impressive victories in their games played on January 9 and 10.

Here’s how the action unfolded:

January 9: Double Wins for Diamantveld

DHS First XI vs HTS Drostdy

The First XI faced HTS Drostdy on their home turf in a 50-over clash. Batting first, Diamantveld posted a commanding total of 304 runs.

Francois Holtzhausen was the star of the show, smashing an extraordinary 129 runs and taking four wickets in a stellar all-round performance.

Nathan Baird added a solid 52 runs, giving the team a strong platform. Despite Drostdy’s best efforts, Diamantveld’s bowlers ensured victory with a 43-run win.

Francois Holtzhausen was the star of the show, smashing an extraordinary 129 runs and taking 4 wickets in a stellar all-round performance. Picture: Facebook

Nathan Baird added a solid 52 runs, giving the DHS team a strong platform. Picture: Facebook

DHS Under-15s vs Bellville High School

The Under-15s took on Bellville High, opting to bowl first after winning the toss. A disciplined bowling performance saw Bellville restricted to just 103 runs in their 50 overs. Jan-Louis de Vries delivered a standout performance, taking an incredible 5/11.

Jan-Louis de Vries delivered a standout performance, taking an incredible 5 wickets for 11 runs. Picture: Facebook

The chase wasn’t without its challenges, as Diamantveld lost a few wickets after lunch, but the target was comfortably reached in the 19th over. Diamantveld triumphed by 4 wickets.

January 10: Another day, another victory

DHS First XI vs Helpmekaar College

Diamantveld’s First XI faced Helpmekaar College in a 20-over thriller.

Helpmekaar batted first, managing 103/9. Arno Mostert was in top form, claiming 3/14. The chase saw some tense moments, but Hanru Rademeyer’s composed knock of 48 runs off 27 balls guided the team home with three balls to spare, and Diamantveld clinched a 5-wicket win.

Hanru Rademeyer remained calm and scored a brilliant 48 runs off 27 balls. Picture: Facebook

DHS Under-15s vs Worcester’s Donkies

The Under-15 team batted first, scoring a respectable 139/6 in 20 overs. Captain Neil Steynberg led from the front with a brilliant 64 runs off 43 balls.

Their bowlers and fielders then delivered a dominant performance, restricting Worcester to a total well below the target. Fourie Smith and Jan-Louis de Vries each took 3 wickets, sealing a 27-run victory.

Team Spirit and Talent on Display

Diamantveld’s performances over the two days showcased the depth of talent and determination across age groups. Both the First XI and Under-15 teams left an indelible mark at the festival, emphasising the school’s powerful cricketing pedigree.