Zubayr Hamza compiled a steady half-century that helped the DP World Lions reach 265/5 in their CSA One-Day Cup match against the Moothee Ram Tuskers at Pietermaritzburg Oval on Wednesday. The Tuskers need 266 runs to win.
Hamza led the charge for the Lions with a composed 75 from 97 balls. This is his 15th List A half-century, he faced 53 deliveries to reach the milestone.
Hamza, who has been in great form in this edition of the One-Day Cup, came into this match with a couple of unbeaten centuries in four matches under his belt. Unfortunately, the opener couldn't make it three for the season. Hamza lost his wicket after he scooped a Malcolm Nofal delivery to Cameron Shekleton, who was stationed at cover, for an easy catch.
Hamza got the Lions going with a steady 48-run opening stand with Reeza Hendricks (22). The pair ensured that the visitors did not lose a wicket in the powerplay. Unfortunately, Hendricks was unable to kick on after a solid start. That partnership was succeeded by the 98-run second-wicket partnership between Hamza and Rassie van der Dussen (49).
Van der Dussen, who was looking set to add another half-century to his tally, was looking comfortable at the crease. The experienced Proteas star lost his wicket while trying to slash a half-volley from Mogakane to the boundary. Instead, he edged the ball to Ntando Zuma behind the stumps.
The Tuskers, who bowled disciplined lines and lengths throughout the innings, dismissed Hamza and Van der Dussen in the 32nd and 35th overs. The Lions struggled to accelerate in the last 15 overs and were taken over the 260-run mark by Delano Potgieter's inspired hitting. Potgieter scored an unbeaten 29 runs in his 19-ball cameo.
Malcolm Nofal was the pick of the bowlers for the Tuskers. The spinner finished with two wickets for 31 runs in seven overs. Hardus Viljoen also bagged a brace of wickets but had a higher economy than Nofal. The experienced pacer allowed 52 runs in nine overs for an economy of 5.78. Nofal had an economy of 4.43
Tuskers: Jack Lees, Jonty Rapulana, Malcolm Nofal, Cameron Shekleton (capt), Michael Erlank, Andile Mogakane, Ntando Zuma (wk), Hardus Viljoen, Bamanye Xenxe, Daryn Dupavillon, Ziyaad Abrahams.
Lions: Reeza Hendricks, Zubayr Hamza, Rassie van der Dussen, Temba Bavuma, Mitch van Buuren (wk), Delano Potgieter, Richard Seletswane, Beyers Swanepoel, Bjorn Fortuin (capt), Codi Yusuf, Nqaba Peter.