The Flexbrands Knights have completed a dominant run in Division 2 after being crowned 2025/26 1Day Cup champions with a five-wicket victory over Eastern Cape Iinyathi in an exciting finale at the Kimberly Oval on Sunday.
The Bloemfontein-based side added yet another trophy to their collection this season after previously winning the T20 KnockOut and 4Day Series competitions.
Batting first, Iinyathi were bowled for 148 runs in just 38.5 overs with Wian Ruthven the sole contributor, scoring 50 runs off 61 balls (4 fours and 2 sixes).
Lihle Sizani contributed a valuable 23 runs, while Jason Niemand chipped in with 30.
Knights' bowlers were exceptional, led by Dane Piedt, who took 4 wickets for 25 runs.
Tiaan Van Vuuren and Malusi Siboto supported well, claiming important wickets that stifled any momentum the Iinyathi batsmen tried to build.
Chasing a modest target of 149 runs, Knights started their innings confidently as they reached the target with a score of 149-5 in 35.4 overs.
Jacques Snyman led from the front, scoring 36 runs off 28 balls. His quick-fire innings included four fours and two sixes, setting a positive tone for the chase.
Although the Knights faced a few early setbacks, including the dismissal of Gihahn Cloete and Isaac Dikgale, they remained composed throughout the chase.
Ruan Haasbroek added 26, while Cole Abrahams played a crucial role in guiding the team home with an unbeaten 33 runs off 46 balls.
For Iinyathi, Nico Van Zyl and Kgaudi Molefe were the pick of the bowlers, each taking two wickets. However, their efforts were not enough to defend the low total.
The Knights will go on to celebrate a well-deserved victory.
This win marks their third title, solidifying their status as a dominant force in the second division.