Pretorius’ Unbeaten 98 Seals Dramatic One-Run Win for Paarl Royals
Pretorius, back in form after a quiet start to the season, struck 10 boundaries and two sixes in his 65-ball knock
Lhuan-dre Pretorius produced a sensational unbeaten 98 to power Paarl Royals to a thrilling one-run victory over MI Cape Town in the Betway SA20 Western Cape derby at Boland Park on Friday.
Defending 15 runs in the final over, Royals seamer Ottniel Baartman held his nerve despite Kagiso Rabada smashing a six, dismissing him on the next ball and restricting MI Cape Town to fall just short. Needing six off the final delivery, George Linde’s shot landed inches inside the boundary rope, sparking wild celebrations among the home crowd.
Pretorius, back in form after a quiet start to the season, struck 10 boundaries and two sixes in his 65-ball knock. He narrowly missed a maiden T20 century as Rabada bowled a dot ball to end the Royals’ innings.
MI Cape Town’s chase was led by Rassie van der Dussen (59) and Ryan Rickelton (36), but Sikandar Raza (3/27) and Baartman (4/51) turned the match in the Royals’ favour with crucial breakthroughs. Pretorius was named Player of the Match after topping the fan vote.
