Related Articles
The CSA Provincial One-Day Challenge Division One reaches its climax as Dolphins and Boland clash in a thrilling final at Paarl. This match pits the top two teams from the group stage against each other, with Boland finishing atop the standings thanks to five wins and one loss, while Dolphins secured their spot with a strong run of five consecutive victories. Despite Boland’s earlier dominance over Dolphins in the group stage—a six-wicket win with 66 balls to spare—the momentum now lies firmly with Dolphins, who are riding high after dismantling Titans by 65 runs in the qualifier. With both sides boasting depth in batting and bowling, this promises to be a fiercely contested finale.
Match Details
| Match | BOL vs DOL (Final) |
|---|---|
| Venue | Boland Park, Paarl |
| Date | 16th March 2025 |
| Time | 2:00 PM |
| Toss Prediction | To Bat |
Team Previews
Boland (Rocks) Preview
Boland enters the final as the group-stage leaders, showcasing consistency and adaptability throughout the tournament. Their bowling attack has been instrumental, led by Imran Manack, whose remarkable 4/24 against Dolphins earlier in the season highlights his threat. Support comes from Shaun von Berg, Siyabonga Mahima, and Aviwe Mgijima, providing variety and control. While Glenton Stuurman may have gone wicketless in recent games, his ability to contain runs adds value.
With the bat, Gavin Kaplan and Blayde Capell have been reliable contributors, often anchoring the innings. Grant Roelofsen’s aggressive style at the top complements Shaun von Berg’s experience in the middle order. Boland’s depth in both departments makes them formidable opponents, but they must guard against complacency given Dolphins’ current form.
Dolphins Preview
Dolphins arrive at the final brimming with confidence, buoyed by a dominant 65-run victory over Titans in the qualifier. Although their batting lineup stumbled initially, Hanu Viljoen (51 runs) and Eathan Bosch (47 runs) steadied the ship, ably supported by cameos from others. The key for Dolphins is ensuring one batter goes beyond 50, allowing the rest to chip in with valuable contributions.
Their bowling unit is equally potent, spearheaded by Keshav Maharaj and Tristan Luus, who claimed three-wicket hauls in their last outing. Captain Prenelan Subrayen provides balance as an all-rounder, while Andile Simelane offers variety. Dolphins’ winning streak and clinical performances make them a dangerous proposition for Boland.
Favourite Team to Win Today
| Team | Reasons |
|---|---|
| Dolphins | Strong momentum, balanced team, and confidence from recent wins give them the edge. |
Fantasy Team XI
| Player | Role | Points Potential |
|---|---|---|
| Hanu Viljoen (WK) | Wicketkeeper | High |
| Gavin Kaplan | Batter | Medium-High |
| JJ Smuts | All-Rounder | Medium |
| Khaya Zondo | Batter | Medium |
| Shaun von Berg | All-Rounder | High |
| Imran Manack | Bowler | Very High |
| Keshav Maharaj | Bowler | High |
| Tristan Luus | Bowler | High |
| Eathan Bosch | All-Rounder | Medium |
| Blayde Capell | Batter | Medium |
| Glenton Stuurman | Bowler | Medium |
Explanation: This fantasy team blends standout performers from both sides. Hanu Viljoen and Gavin Kaplan are included for their batting consistency, while Shaun von Berg and Imran Manack provide all-round and bowling excellence. Key bowlers like Keshav Maharaj and Tristan Luus complete the lineup.
Suggested Captains and Vice-Captains
- Captain: Imran Manack – His knack for taking crucial wickets makes him a prime candidate for captaincy.
- Vice-Captain: Hanu Viljoen – A dependable batter capable of anchoring the innings ensures he’s a solid vice-captain choice.
Players to Avoid
- Blayde Capell – Inconsistent performances mean he might not justify selection in your fantasy team.
- Andile Simelane – Limited impact in recent games could see him struggle against Boland’s disciplined bowling.
Probable Playing XIs
Boland (Rocks)
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Blayde Capell | Opener |
| Grant Roelofsen | Opener |
| Gavin Kaplan | Batter |
| Aviwe Mgijma | Batter |
| Lehan Botha | Batter |
| Clyde Fortuin (c)(WK) | Wicketkeeper |
| Shaun von Berg | All-Rounder |
| Ayabulela Gqamane | Bowler |
| Imran Manack | Bowler |
| Glenton Stuurman | Bowler |
| Siyabonga Mahima | Bowler |
Dolphins
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Tshepang Dithole | Opener |
| JJ Smuts | All-Rounder |
| Bryce Parsons | Batter |
| Jason Smith | Batter |
| Khaya Zondo | Batter |
| Hanu Viljoen (WK) | Wicketkeeper |
| Eathan Bosch | All-Rounder |
| Andile Simelane | Bowler |
| Keshav Maharaj | Bowler |
| Prenelan Subrayen (c) | All-Rounder |
| Tristan Luus | Bowler |
Pitch Report and Weather Conditions
The pitch at Boland Park is expected to favor batters, offering good pace and consistent bounce. A par score of 300-320 is likely if teams bat first. Temperatures will peak at 27°C, with some cloud cover early on but no rain forecast, ensuring uninterrupted play.
Winner Prediction
While Boland boasts a strong squad, Dolphins’ superior momentum and clinical performances make them favorites. Expect Dolphins to continue their winning streak and clinch the title.
Final Answer: Dolphins
CricketPandith Match Prediction Package
Per Match Charges: 1000 Rs/Match
Monthly Package: 5000 Rs/Month (Unlimited Match)
All International/League Match Prediction Available
