WP beat the Rocks in CSA T20 Challenge opener

The Six Gun Grill Western Province (WP) have announced themselves as contenders in the shortest format, following a solid, but somewhat shaky win in the 2022 CSA T20 Challenge opener.

After losing the toss, WP captain Wayne Parnell was asked to bowl first. Bearen Hendricks was handed the new ball and did his job beautifully. His two-over spell brought about two wickets and helped restrict the GbetRocks to 44 for three by the end of the powerplay.

“I wouldn’t say [our performance was] perfect, there are areas we can get better”

GAME 1 | INNINGS CHANGE 🔄@Paarl_Rocks 1⃣4⃣2⃣/6⃣
Christiaan Jonker 4⃣6⃣
Ferisco Adams 3⃣4⃣
George Linde 2⃣/1⃣3⃣
Beuran Hendricks 2⃣/2⃣8⃣
📝 Ball by Ball https://t.co/c1ztvrT95P
LIVE on SuperSport, Star (India) and Free Sports (UK) 📺#CSAT20Challenge #BePartOfIt pic.twitter.com/ESxLRLEy1j
— Cricket South Africa (@OfficialCSA) February 7, 2022

While four wickets fell in quick succession, the fifth-man in, Christiaan Jonker managed to stick around. The experienced campaigner found himself a partner in Ferisco Adams, and together battled to a 79-run partnership. They faced up to constant pressure and helped the Boland outfit post a defendable total of 142.

🚨 WELCOME BACK
Richard Levi grabs the first half-century of the #CSAT20Challenge after firing 67 off 39 balls at the top of the @WP_Blitz order#BePartOfIt pic.twitter.com/V4Erfv0X0J
— Cricket South Africa (@OfficialCSA) February 7, 2022

In Levi’s Genes

Cape Cobras legend, Richard Levi started the chase well and did exactly what coach Salieg Nackerdien was hoping he’d do. Being his usual aggressive self.

The 34-year old was hitting the ball with lethal presision, racing to 67 (39). His nostalgic 54-run stand with Dane Vilas teed up the victory and George Linde and Aviwe Mgijima saw it home with three overs to spare.

GAME 1 RESULT | @WP_BLITZ WIN BY 6 WICKETS 🚨
A chase set up by Richard Levi's 67 saw @wp_blitz get their #CSAT20Challenge off to the ideal start as they claimed the bragging rights in the Western Cape Derby over @Paarl_Rocks #CSAT20Challenge #BePartOfIt pic.twitter.com/jyoP8n9CEe
— Cricket South Africa (@OfficialCSA) February 7, 2022

The win sees Wayne Parnell and his Western Province side get off to a fantastic start in the 2022 CSA T20 Challenge. The victory first-up puts WP in a favourable position in this demanding 3-week tournament.

Looking ahead, Parnell needs his side to tighten up certain departments of the game.

“I wouldn’t say [our performance was] perfect, there are areas we can get better,” said the 32-year old.

“I’m happy to get over the line. The boys showed great intent and that’s something we’ve stressed throughout. We want people to play with freedom, we want people entertaining and it was nice to see the senior guys standing up. It was very pleasing.”

WP have two more matches lined up this week. Their next meeting is with the Gbets Warriors on Wednesday (9 Feb) and followed by an encounter with the Imperial Lions on Sunday (13 Feb).