In a dazzling display of skill and determination, Captain Jos Buttler’s masterful unbeaten innings of 70 not only secured Paarl Royals’ undefeated status but also earned them a bonus point in a sensational showdown against Joburg Super Kings on January 17 in the SA20 league.
Choosing to bat first, the Super Kings faced an early setback on a bowler-friendly pitch, losing three crucial wickets within the powerplay. Lungi Ngidi, with his two-wicket haul including the prized scalp of Faf du Plessis, set the tone for the Royals’ dominant performance.
The Super Kings found a glimmer of hope through a resilient knock from Leus de Plooy, who capitalized on an early dropped chance to notch up 71 runs in their total of 134. Despite a brief fightback with Moeen Ali contributing 18, the Royals’ strategic strikes at regular intervals thwarted any sustained recovery.
In the chase, Buttler emerged as the driving force, steering the Royals to victory even as Jason Roy departed early. Forming a formidable partnership of 87 runs in just 50 balls with Wihan Lubbe, Buttler’s dynamic innings of 8 fours and 3 sixes condemned the Super Kings to their third loss in four games.
The Royals, now standing tall alongside the Durban Super Giants, continue their unbeaten streak, claiming the top spot on the league table after this emphatic triumph.
Brief Scores: Joburg Super Kings 134 all out (Leus de Plooy 71; Lungi Ngidi 3-17) succumb to Paarl Royals 135/3 in 14.1 overs (Jos Buttler 70*) by 7 wickets.
