CSA T20 Challenge: Western Province off the mark, Boland go back-to-back

Smith's spectacular sets Newlands ablaze

In Cape Town, Daniel Smith produced a masterclass in power-hitting to guide World Sports Betting Western Province to a resounding four-wicket victory over the North-West Dragons at Newlands.

Chasing 187, Smith's blistering 80 off just 26 balls turned a potentially tricky pursuit into a procession. Partnered by Valentine Kitime, who struck a confident 50, the 23-year-old dismantled the Dragons' attack with six consecutive sixes at one stage - including an astounding 34-run over off Caleb Seleka that shifted the game decisively in the hosts' favour.

Despite early trouble at 5–2 after Onke Nyaku's double strike removed Eddie Moore and Kyle Verreynne, Kitime and Smith rebuilt with fearless intent, blasting 64 runs in the powerplay. Once Smith fell attempting another audacious switch hit, the chase was well under control. Juan James's calm unbeaten 25 ensured Western Province crossed the line with 19 balls to spare.

Earlier, Diego Rosier (73 off 38) and Ludwich Schuld (61 off 40) powered the Dragons to 186–5 on a flat Newlands wicket, but their total ultimately fell short against Smith's onslaught.

Boland edge Lions in nail-biter at the Wanderers

Up north, Boland displayed resilience and composure to edge the DP World Lions by eight runs at the Wanderers, climbing to the top of the table in the process.

The visitors posted a modest 138 all out, rescued by Lehan Botha's fighting 42 off 36 and Ferisco Adams' quickfire 35 from 22 after Beyers Swanepoel tore through the top order with 4–27.

Defending a small total, Boland's bowlers held their nerve under pressure. Akhona Mnyaka was exceptional up front, removing the Lions' top three - including Rassie van der Dussen and captain Mitch van Buuren - within the powerplay. His figures of 3–19 in four overs set the tone for a disciplined bowling display.

As the Lions struggled to find momentum, debutants Richard Seletswane (20) and Khaya Fakude (24) tried to rebuild, but their cautious approach left too much to do at the end. Even a late charge from Delano Potgieter (46 off 29 not out) couldn't rescue the hosts, as Imran Manack and Ferisco Adams delivered clutch overs at the death to seal Boland's second consecutive win.