SA20’s opener witnesses 449 run-game:Ryan Rickelton’s career-best 113(T20) could not save MI Cape Town from 15-run loss

In the opening match of the SA20 League Season 4, Durban Super Giants defeated MI Cape Town by 15 runs. A total of 449 runs were scored in this high-scoring match played at Newlands, where even Ryan Rickelton’s century could not secure a win for MI. On the opening night, spectators witnessed a run-carnage from start to finish. A total of 25 sixes and 40 fours were hit in the match. Devon Conway and Kane Williamson build 96-run partnership Batting first, New Zealand’s opening pair, Devon Conway and Kane Williamson, got Durban Super Giants off to a quick start in the powerplay. The duo added 96 runs in 8.3 overs. Williamson scored 40 runs off 25 balls, but he was dismissed by a brilliant diving catch from MI Cape Town captain Rashid Khan. After this, Jos Buttler (20) and Heinrich Klaasen (22) maintained the run rate. Conway played a knock of 64 runs off 33 balls. With aggressive batting from Aiden Markram (35) and Evan Jones (not out 33) in the final overs, the team posted a score of 232/5 in 20 overs, which is the highest score in SA20 history at Newlands. Ryan Rickelton’s ton for MI Cape Town spoiled Chasing the target, MI Cape Town had a poor start. Rassie van der Dussen and Reeza Hendricks got out cheaply. After this, Ryan Rickelton took charge. Debutant Jason Smith scored 41 runs off 14 balls, bringing his side back into the game. Durban Super Giants bowlers took wickets consistently in the death overs. Rickelton got a lifeline on 85 runs from a no-ball, after which he completed his second T20 century. However, 22 runs were needed in the last over, where Ethan Bosch (4/46) bowled brilliantly under pressure, taking Rickelton’s wicket and shattering MI Cape Town’s hopes for victory.