The SA20 2024 season kicked off with an absolute run-fest at Newlands in Cape Town on Friday night, where Durban's Super Giants (DSG) held their nerve to defeat MI Cape Town by 15 runs in a match that saw a staggering 449 runs scored collectively.
Record-Breaking Batting Carnage
Durban's Super Giants set the tone by posting a mammoth 232 for 5, which is now the highest total in SA20 history. This broke the previous record of 204/3 set by Sunrisers Eastern Cape in last season's final. The innings was built on a blazing start from the all-Kiwi opening pair of Devon Conway (64 off 33) and Kane Williamson (40 off 25). Contributions from Jos Buttler, Heinrich Klaasen, and a fiery finish by Aiden Markram (35 off 17) and Evan Jones (33* off 14) ensured the visitors set a daunting target. The match was a boundary bonanza, featuring 25 sixes and 40 fours.
Rickelton's Lone Warrior Act
In reply, MI Cape Town's chase was single-handedly powered by opener Ryan Rickelton, who played a breathtaking innings of 113 runs from just 65 balls. His knock included 11 massive sixes and five fours. One of his maximums, hit in the 13th over, was caught one-handed by a spectator in the stands. Under the SA20's fan-catch initiative, that lucky fan won a reward of Rand 2 million (approximately INR 1.08 crore).
Rickelton received brief support from Jason Smith, who smashed 41 off 14 balls, but wickets fell regularly at the other end. The South African batter had a life on 85 due to a no-ball from Kwena Maphaka, which allowed him to complete his second T20 century. However, with 22 needed off the final over, DSG seamer Ethan Bosch (4/46) dismissed Rickelton to seal a thrilling victory for his side.
A Thrilling Start to the Season
Despite the early loss of Rassie van der Dussen and Reeza Hendricks, Rickelton kept MI Cape Town in the hunt until the very end. His heroic effort, however, went in vain as DSG's bowlers, led by Bosch, executed their plans well in the death overs. The match has set a incredibly high standard for entertainment in the tournament's third season, showcasing the power-packed brand of cricket that SA20 promises. The result gives Durban's Super Giants a winning start, while MI Cape Town will rue not finishing the chase despite a legendary individual performance.
