These three head-to-head clashes between bowlers and batsmen could shape the outcome of the eliminator playoff at Centurion.
Bjorn Fortuin (Royals) vs James Vince (JSK)
Known as ‘Mr Reliable’, Bjorn Fortuin has made the powerplay his own for the Paarl Royals. The left-arm spinner attacks the stumps relentlessly and has a knack for striking early with the new ball.
Fortuin will be targeting James Vince up front, while the experienced English batsman knows that seeing off the spinner wicketless is a major step towards success against the Royals. As the Joburg Super Kings’ most seasoned batsman, Vince will also be looking to bat deep and provide calm leadership to a relatively young middle order in this high-pressure eliminator.
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Sikandar Raza (Royals) vs Leus du Plooy (JSK)
Few SA20 players have made an immediate impact quite like Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza. The all-rounder has been outstanding with both bat and ball and, in the likely absence of injured skipper David Miller, carries added leadership responsibility for the Royals.
Leus du Plooy, meanwhile, has stepped confidently into the shoes of JSK captain Faf du Plessis and has already shown he belongs at this level. Du Plooy proved decisive in the most recent league-stage meeting between the sides and will be eager to produce another match-winning performance when it matters most.
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Lhuan-dre Pretorius (Royals) vs Nandre Burger (JSK)
Last season’s leading run-scorer has discovered that a second campaign is rarely as straightforward as the first. But Lhuan-dre Pretorius remains a match-winner capable of taking the game away from the opposition in a matter of overs.
Back at one of his favourite venues at Centurion, the eliminator could provide the spark for the talented youngster to rediscover his explosive best.
Standing in his way is Nandre Burger, the undisputed leader of the Joburg Super Kings attack. The left-arm quick is fit, firing and ready to unleash serious pace. Yet to produce a major wicket haul this season, Burger will be hoping the big breakthrough arrives in the eliminator – ideally by removing Pretorius early.
Photo: Shaun Roy/Sportzpics
