The Eastern Storm advanced to the T20 Knockout final after a 77-run win against the Northern Cape Heat in Benoni on Wednesday.
The Heat won the toss and opted to field in the first semi-final, but the Storm’s batting lineup capitalised with a massive 222-2, thanks to Chris Britz’s unbeaten 107* off 59 balls (eight fours and six sixes) and Danie Rossouw’s 66 off 45. Dewan Marais added a quickfire 28* off 11.
Divan Posthumus, Tumelo Simelane and Amaan Khan then each claimed three wickets as the Heat were bowled out for 145. Modiri Litheko top-scored for the visitors with 57 off 45 balls,
“Batting first, the power play was really tricky, but Danie and I built a partnership that helped a lot,” said Britz. “The runs started flowing, and we ended up with a good total. The boys then bowled beautifully to defend what I thought was a great score.
“It’s always nice to score runs, especially in a semi-final. My plan was just to get through the power play, as I found it the toughest time to bat. Once I got a couple out of the middle, I found my rhythm and just went on from there. I’m really proud of myself and the team for delivering such a solid performance today.”
The second semi-final, between the KZN Inland Tuskers and Garden Route Badgers (SWD), will take place in Pietermaritzburg on Thursday.
