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The old, the new, the tried and proven, the young and exciting.&nbsp;MI Cape Town’s squad of 19 at the end of a marathon mega Auction for the SA20 season 4 is here and we have the perfect mix for you. Let’s dive right in and say hello to the men who are all set to give it their all for the Mother City and defend our crown.&nbsp;<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>1.</td><td>Rassie van der Dussen</td><td>R5.2 million</td></tr><tr><td>2.</td><td>Reeza Hendricks</td><td>R500,000</td></tr><tr><td>3.&nbsp;</td><td>Dwaine Pretorius&nbsp;</td><td>R650,000</td></tr><tr><td>4.&nbsp;</td><td>Tristan Luus</td><td>R650,000</td></tr><tr><td>5.&nbsp;</td><td>Jason Smith</td><td>R500,000</td></tr><tr><td>6.&nbsp;</td><td>Tom Moores</td><td>R200,000</td></tr><tr><td>7.</td><td>Dane Piedt&nbsp;</td><td>R200,000</td></tr><tr><td>8.</td><td>Tian van Vuuren</td><td>R1 million</td></tr><tr><td>9.</td><td>Dan Lategan</td><td>R400,000</td></tr><tr><td>10.</td><td>Tabraiz Shamsi</td><td>R500,000</td></tr><tr><td>11.</td><td>Karim Janat</td><td>R1 million</td></tr><tr><td>12.</td><td>Jacques Snyman</td><td>R200,000</td></tr><tr><td>13.</td><td>Trent Boult</td><td>Retained</td></tr><tr><td>14.</td><td>Rashid Khan</td><td>Retained</td></tr><tr><td>15.</td><td>Ryan Rickleton</td><td>Retained</td></tr><tr><td>16.</td><td>George Linde</td><td>Retained</td></tr><tr><td>17.</td><td>Corbin Bosch</td><td>Retained</td></tr><tr><td>18.</td><td>Kagiso Rabada</td><td>Wild Card</td></tr><tr><td>19.</td><td>Nicholas Pooran</td><td>Pre-signing</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Welkom to MI Cape Town, #SquadOfSeason4

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Of all the talking points in the mega Auction ahead of the fourth season of SA20 where most teams had a bit of a revamp, the most prominent from an MI Cape Town perspective was the return of the three Rs who played a major role in the team’s title march last season – Rassie van der Dussen, Ryan Rickelton and Reeza Hendricks - at the top of the order.&nbsp;MICT Head Coach, Robin Peterson, was equally excited. “Very happy. A lot of things we planned for, we managed to pull off today. We didn’t get one or two players from last year that we wanted, but that’s okay. We are pretty happy with the team we have going into the fourth season. Exciting times,” he said in a post-auction chat with the broadcaster.&nbsp;“Rassie and Ricks (Rickelton) at the top of the order set the tone. They have been formidable for the last two years. We feel they are just getting better and better as a partnership, so we just wanted to keep that continuity. It’s so important in South Africa to play the new ball, we felt that was a very important piece in what we wanted to do today.”With a mix of old faces coming back and some new faces waiting to explode in the Blue and Gold, we should be for another cracking season of the SA20 where we go all out to defend our crown!

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“Very happy, pulled off a lot of what we had planned for”: Head Coach, Robin Peterson

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And that would be that! MI Cape Town's #BatchOfSeason4 is here, ready to defend our title and paint the Rainbow Nation in our Blue and Gold! We had retained our core from last year, brought back a number of familiar faces and have spruced it up with some new ones. Oh, could we be more excited?! Bring on December already, please!&nbsp;<hr>Karim Janat, the wily Afghan all-rounder with the experience of playing around the world, is now set to conquer Cape Town. He comes at his base price of 1million Rand. Jacques Snyman, the Pretoria all-rounder will have his first taste of the SA20 and the #OneFamily, getting snapped up in the second express round for 200K Rand.&nbsp;7:45pm local time: The mystery man with some magic in his celebrations. The Artist. The Entertainer. The Bamboozler. Tabraiz Shamsi, the crafty left-arm wrist-spinner is how set to give it a rip at Newlands and fox batters left, right and center. 500K Rand.&nbsp;7:15pm local time: Tiaan van Vuuren causes the first bidding war in the Express set, so much so that his price jumps from 200,000 Rand to a whopping 1 million Rand. This 24-year-old all-rounder is all set to laugh his way to the bank with an MI Cape Town Blue and Gold around his chest. Yep, we've snapped him after a tough fight with JSK. And the immediate next pick, Dan Lategan - the Western Cape born, Worcestershire bred lad - is also ours, at 400K Rand, a war we win against the Paarl Royals.&nbsp;Here's a recap of how our #BatchOfSeason4 looks like:&nbsp;Retained: Trent Boult, Rashid Khan, Ryan Rickleton, George Linde, Corbin Bosch Wild Card: Kagiso Rabada Pre-signing: Nicholas Pooran At the auction: Rassie van der Dussen (R5.2 million), Reeza Hendricks (R500,000), Dwaine Pretorius (R650,000), Tristan Luus (R650,000), Jason Smith (R500,000), Tom Moores (R200,000), Dane Piedt (R200,000)<hr>6:30pm local time: It's Accelerated Auction time! Brace up for some quick picks and last minute shopping. We still have slots for five players (one of whom needs to be an under-23 player) with 3.6M Rand left in the bank. All franchises have been asked to give a list of up to ten players who they'd like to see re-appear in the Auction.&nbsp;6:25pm local time: Well, well, well. From Rassie to Reeza to Tristan to Dane Piedt. The veteran, the man with the golden arm, with the Midas touch, will stay put for 200,000 Rand. We aren't letting him go anywhere! The #OneFamily is growing!Things are moving rather quickly here. The Moores are a popular cricketing family in England, and we have one of them joining the MICT ranks. Tom Moores, a ‘keeper-batter from Nottingham and also son of former England croach Peter Moores, comes over at 200K Rand. He’s going to love working in tandem with fellow southpaw-keeper, Ryan Rickelton.&nbsp;<hr>Slots remaining: 7 | Purse remaining: 4M Rand6:00pm local time: Born in Cape Town, will play for Cape Town! Jason Smith, fresh from his recent promotion to the Proteas senior squad, is all set to play for the Mother City, his city, our city. A homecoming, literally! He joins for his base price of 500K Rand.&nbsp;5:40pm local time: From the Rookie Draft in season 3 to the Auction in season 4 - Tristan Luus, the young promising quick, stays in MI Cape Town for 650K Rand. Oh we're loving' it. Newlands, excited already!!A gun batter, a gun bowler, a gun fielder, a gun guy! Dwaine Pretorius, the South African pro, is all set to come to Cape Town at 650K Rand. He's all set to add some muscle to our middle-order. Fun fact: He holds the record for the best bowling figures by a South African in international T20s - 5/17.&nbsp;4:30pm local time: Oh, some further 2025 deja vu! Reeza Hendricks, another familiar face from our championship winning season, is back. The three Rs are intact: Rassie, Ryan, Reeza. 500k Rand, his base price, he comes home uncontested.&nbsp;<hr>RASSIE IS BACK!!!! The Rassie-Ryan combo at the top of the order that kept notching up big stands is all set to do the same in season 4. Rassie van der Dussen, welcome back to the Blue and Gold. He did attract a fair bidding war, but we weren't letting him go. He's ours at 5.2 million Rand.&nbsp;2:30pm local time: Some breakneck action out there in the middle. Big names have come, big money has been splurged. MI Cape Town have been rather watchful. It's coming, it's coming..2pm local time: Threeee, twoooo, oneee, WE ARE LIVE. Tell us your dream list, Kaapstad!&nbsp;<hr>And for everything MICT, <a href="https://micapetown.co.za/news/rules-slots-reserve-price-all-your-faqs-for-the-sa20-season-4-auction-answered">here’s your cheat sheet</a> with all your FAQs answered:&nbsp;So here’s the run-order for the day:<ul><li>The Auction begins at 2pm local time &nbsp;</li><li>A total of 546 players have registered themselves for the 84 slots available across teams &nbsp;</li><li>There are three Marquee sets comprising of seven players each, followed by two sets of batters, fast bowlers, spin bowlers, wicket-keepers and all-rounders &nbsp;</li><li>Once done, we would move into an express auction round where the players unsold in the first round could re-enter potentially as well &nbsp;</li><li>The players have selected reserve (base) prices for themselves as follows: 200000 Rand, 500000 Rand, 1000000 Rand and 1500000 Rand.&nbsp;</li></ul><hr>1:30pm local time: IT’S AUCTION DAY.&nbsp;Selling once, selling twice, AND SOLD. We have a crown to defend, the crown of champions, and it all starts here. Tonight. With 11.5million Rand in our kitty and 12 players to purchase, we are in for a shopping spree. We’ve retained our core from the winning 2024 squad, and we could potentially be getting a few of them back from the auction. Oh, we are in for a rollercoaster of an evening. And this is your space for all the buys, the misses, the oh-so-there, steals and all that happens around the gavel in Jo’burg from an MI Cape Town lens, with some fun hopefully along the way. Stay tuned, live action isn’t far away .. &nbsp;

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MICT @ SA20 Season 4 Auction: Rassie, Reeza BACK in the Blue and Gold - As it happened

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Can I smell an Auction?Indeed, and that’s precisely why we’re here. Season 4 of the SA20 is here and we are set for a bit of a rejig. This is a mega auction, and as the defending champions, we are super excited about building our team of superstars that will help us bring back our crown to the Mother City.&nbsp;Okay, I’m excited already! When and where is it happening?September 9, 2025 in Johannesburg, starting at 13:30 SAST. Richard Madley, the GOAT auctioneer would be conducting proceedings with his gavel.&nbsp;Who have MI Cape Town retained and how many slots remain?A total of seven players have been retained/pre-signed. Ryan Rickelton (retained), George Linde (retained), Corbin Bosch (retained), Rashid Khan (retained), Trent Boult (retained), Nicholas Pooran (pre-signed), Kagiso Rabada (wildcard).&nbsp;This leaves us with a maximum of 12 slots remaining to be filled, with a maximum of four overseas players and two under-23 players.So what do we need and how much money do we have in the purse?MI Cape Town have retained a large chunk of the core players from the winning squad of season 3. With 11.5million Rand still left in the purse, we need to fill up a large chunk of our batting order.What’s the under-23 rule?Each team would need to have at least two under-23 players within their ranks. We won’t be having the Rookie Draft this year.&nbsp;Got it! What’s going to be the day’s run-order?A total of 550 players have registered for the Auction. There are three Marquee sets comprising of seven players each, followed by two sets of batters, fast bowlers, spin bowlers, wicket-keepers and all-rounders. Once done, we would move into an express auction round where the players unsold in the first round could re-enter potentially as well. The players have selected reserve (base) prices for themselves as follows: 200000 Rand, 500000 Rand, 1000000 Rand and 1500000 Rand.&nbsp;

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Rules, slots, reserve price…All your FAQs for the SA20 Season 4 Auction answered

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Here’s our chance to defend our title at home! The iconic Newlands Cricket Ground in Cape Town, the home of MI Cape Town, is all set to the host the Final of the fourth season of the SA20 on January 25, 2026.&nbsp;Durban would play host to the first Qualifier, with the two Highveld grounds playing host to the other two playoff games – Centurion with the Eliminator and Jo’burg with the second Qualifier. Mark your calendars:&nbsp;Qualifier 1 (Durban) – January 21, 2026 | 17:30 local timeEliminator (Centurion) – January 22, 2026 | 17:30 local timeQualifier 2 (Johannesburg) – January 23, 2026 | 17:30 local timeFinal (Cape Town) – January 25 2026 | 15:30 local time&nbsp;Oh, we simply cannot wait to get back on the field. The season comes early this year, with things kicking off on Boxing Day (December 26, 2025). What better than getting the chance to defend our crown with our loyal Fam right behind us!&nbsp;

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Woohoo! Newlands set to host the SA20 Season 4 Final

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Fresh off a historic maiden SA20 championship title in 2025,&nbsp;MI Cape Town has announced its list of retained players keeping a strong core of local and international talent as they gear up to defend their crown in the upcoming 2026 season.A total of six players — four domestic and two international — have been retained, all of whom played a pivotal role in the team’s success in 2025, not only in SA20 but also across the broader Mumbai Indians global system.Among the South African contingent, Ryan Rickelton and George Linde continue their journey with MI Cape Town into a fourth successive season, while Corbin Bosch, who joined the squad last season, also returns. Kagiso Rabada has been signed as the franchise’s wildcard player, adding further firepower to the local lineup.Leading the international roster is Rashid Khan, captain of MI Cape Town’s title-winning squad in SA20 2025, who will be back alongside Trent Boult. The duo played an instrumental role in securing the team’s maiden championship. Joining them will be pre-signed Nicholas Pooran, who is set to make his debut for MI Cape Town in 2026.This retained core reflects the franchise’s belief in continuity, performance, and its mission to nurture a winning culture both on and off the field.MI Cape Town would like to thank the players for their commitment and dedication to the journey and the title winning run last year and wish them the best.

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ANNOUNCED for SA20 season 4: MICT's retentions, wild card, pre-signing

Yayyyyy!!! The dates, your dates for MI Cape Town’s fixtures in the fourth edition of the SA20 are here. Quick, grab you pen and paper, think of the excuses you’ll be pulling off to be at the grounds in your Blue and Gold, and save the dates.&nbsp;The season will be off to a bumper opening on Boxing Day – 26th December 2025 – with defending champions MI Cape Town hosting Durban’s Super Giants at our home, Newlands. We are set to face DSG, the Paarl Royals, Joburg Super Kings and the Sunrisers Eastern Cape in back-to-back home and away fixtures, making it for some serious viewing.&nbsp;The Final of the competition will take place on 25 January 2026, with Qualifier 1 scheduled for 21 January, the Eliminator on 22 January and Qualifier 2 on 23 January. Venues for the Final and the Playoffs will be confirmed on a later date.Okay, here’s our full schedule:&nbsp;26 December 2025 | 17:30 SAST: MI Cape Town vs Durban’s Super Giants&nbsp;28 December 2025 | 15:30 SAST: Durban’s Super Giants vs MI Cape Town&nbsp;31 December 2025 | 17:30 SAST: MI Cape Town vs Pretoria Capitals2 January 2026 | 17:30 SAST: Paarl Royals vs MI Cape Town&nbsp;4 January 2026 | 15:30 SAST: MI Cape Town vs Paarl Royals6 January 2026 | 17:30 SAST: MI Cape Town vs Joburg Super Kings&nbsp;10 January 2026 | 17:30 SAST: Joburg Super Kings vs MI Cape Town12 January 2026 | 17:30 SAST: Pretoria Capitals vs MI Cape Town16 January 2026 | 17:30 SAST: MI Cape Town vs Sunrisers Eastern Cape&nbsp;18 January 2026 | 15:30 SAST: Sunrisers Eastern Cape vs MI Cape Town&nbsp;

The SCHEDULE for SA20 season 4 is here!! Boxing Day, here we come

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Bring out your calculators, start jotting down the permutations and combinations, tell us your wishlist. WE SIMPLY CANNOT KEEP CALM!!&nbsp;The date: 9th September 2025. The event: The Betway SA20 Season 4 Auction. The venue: Johannesburg.&nbsp;Prior to the auction, the franchises are permitted no more than 6 retentions or pre-signed players comprising of a maximum of 3 overseas players and 3 South African players. This means a minimum of 72 players would be up for grabs.&nbsp;The team composition, i.e. the split between the local and overseas players is set to remain the same, with every squad allowed a maximum of &nbsp;seven overseas players and a minimum of 11 South African players. The Wildcard rule remains the same as well, with the teams allowed to sign one Wildcard player to each squad. The Wildcard player can be a South African or overseas player, and their League fee falls outside of the salary cap.Each of the six franchises would have R41-million in their purse this season to make up their squads. In a new move, the Right To Match (RTM) cards are set to be introduced this season. This allows a Franchise the opportunity to match a winning auction bid on a player who played for that team in Season 3 and retain his services for Season 4. Each team will have a limited number of RTM cards to use, depending on the number of South African pre-auction player retentions they use.In another significant change from last year, there will no longer be a Rookie Draft, instead, teams must sign a minimum of two Under-23 players in their final 19 player squads.Richard Madley (and his gavel, of course), who’ve become synonymous with the SA20 Auctions would once again be out there conducting the proceedings.&nbsp;So, what are you waiting for? Spam our channels, tell us your dream team at MI Cape Town. We are all set to defend our crown!&nbsp;

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9th Sep 2025: Save the date for SA20 Season 4 Auction

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MI has started 2025 on a high! History scripted, MI Cape Town crowned SA20 2025 Champions!&nbsp;Lifting their first trophy in the league, the MI Cape Town showcased absolute dominance from start to the finish through the season. With relentless consistency, they won match after match, never taking the foot off the accelerator, capping off a historic campaign in style.With this triumph, Mumbai. New York. Emirates. Cape Town. Every team in the MI Family now has a Winner’s trophy in its cabinet.&nbsp;Mrs Nita M. Ambani said: “What a proud and historic moment for the MI family! From Mumbai to New York, the UAE to Cape Town - MI teams have won league titles &amp; the hearts of fans across the globe. This title is a testament to our commitment to excellence, our belief in talent, and the spirit of Mumbai Indians. We are a truly global family, united by our passion for the game. A heartfelt thank you to all our fans for their unwavering support - this victory is as much yours as it is ours. Congratulations to MI Cape Town for making 2025 a year to remember!”Mr. Akash M. Ambani, Team Owner, said, “MI Cape Town’s journey this season has been nothing short of exceptional, and I couldn’t be prouder of the team. This victory is a testament to the MI philosophy—backing talent, believing in the process, and playing with heart. This win is for our fans, who have stood by us through every high and low. Newlands Cape Town, this is your moment—enjoy it!"With this historic win, Mumbai Indians continue to set new benchmarks in global franchise cricket. Over the past 17 years, the dedication of the MI family—comprising Mumbai Indians (IPL &amp; WPL), MI Cape Town, MI Emirates, and MI New York—has resulted in an incredible 11 T20 league titles worldwide. This includes five IPL championships, two Champions League victories, and the inaugural WPL and Major League Cricket titles in 2023, along with the ILT20 title in 2024.&nbsp;MI’s journey has been one of passion, perseverance, and excellence, bringing together talent from across the world and winning not just trophies, but the hearts of millions of fans. With this SA20 victory, 2025 has started on the perfect note for the MI family!

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"This victory is a testament
to the MI philosophy": Mr. Akash M. Ambani

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India. USA. UAE. South Africa. The quartet is complete. The MI #OneFamily has conquered them all.&nbsp;&nbsp;Oh, didn’t we need this. It’s been three seasons in the making. And it feels just incredible to hear this. Let’s say it loud enough for everyone to hear: MI Cape Town, the 2025 SA20 Champions!!“Very happy. Last year and the year before we were at the bottom of the table. Topping the table this year and winning the final feels great. Winning six games with a bonus point was unbelievable. Shows how everyone contributed to the win. Credit goes to each and every one. The support and the way the Head Coach, Robbie (Peterson), kept the dressing room was incredible,” said Rashid Khan, the victorious skipper at the post-match press conference shortly after lifting the title.&nbsp;Trent Boult wrote himself into history books with this feat as well of winning a title with all four teams, Mumbai Indians in IPL 2020, MI New York in MLC 2023, MI Emirates in ILT20 2024 and now with MI Cape Town in SA20 2025. A powerplay wicket was almost a guarantee with him around.&nbsp;“Obviously very excited to get an opportunity to come to this part of the world. It’s a proud sporting nation and an exciting place to play cricket. Great way to top off the season. The boys have fought hard and deserve it,” Boult said.&nbsp;Head Coach, Robin Peterson, has been with the team for the last three years, and he knows the disappointment that came over the last two years. In true Robbie fashion, he scripted a turnaround. It really was one.&nbsp;“Every time you are involved with MI, you are expected to win,” he said. “In the first two years, we tried our best but things didn’t work out. Bringing Rash (Rashid) back, bringing (Trent) Boulty here, made a huge difference. The experience and a couple of fresh faces is just amazing how it changed the environment. MI is a proud franchise,” he said.&nbsp;The party has only begun. Cape Town, you have another glittering piece of silverware to an already rich sporting history. Newlands, with sellout after sellout, you’ve been absolutely wonderful. Let’s rejoice. This is MI city, this is MI team, We are MI Cape Town.&nbsp;

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MI City, MI Team, MI Champion Cape Town

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Bear hugs, pumped up celebrations, some happy tears, some big smiles. When the final wicket in the SEC innings fell, the outfield at the Wanderers was where the MICT party first began. Through some interviews and chats with the host broadcaster, let’s be a part of soaking in the win..&nbsp;Rashid Khan | Winning Captain: Tonight was brilliant. We had couple of tough years. The highest points across three seasons to start off. Feel happy for this team. Brilliant effort from everyone. Throughout this season, we didn't play a selfish innings. Every one thought what the team needs. Even today, every one played their natural game. We had KG, Bosch, Boult and then George. So, happy to be part of this bowling line up. Amazing to be back. Missed last year due to back injury. I got a phone call ahead of the season that do you want to lead. I said yes. This is the only franchise which has won every tournament. We have won the IPL, MLC, the ILT20 and now the SA20.Trent Boult is the Player of the Match: First of all the boys put up a great performance. We scratched to 180 and very satisfying to get the job done. Beautiful place to play. The tournament is well followed. It was nice to get on a wicket that had help for the bowlers. Players stood up at the right points this season.Kagiso Rabada: I think I was extra focussed as it was a final. They had made three finals in a row. On their day, they can beat anyone. I felt 180 was above par. Everyone bowled well. Rashid and Linde did well in the middle overs. I love playing in SA. It is my favorite place to play. The fans are amazing. The performances have been thrilling.Trent Boult: Very special. To get the opportunity to win all four (titles with MI franchise) was great. Haven't played much cricket in South Africa. Guys wanted to do it for each other. Cricket here has been great fun.Dewald Brevis: I was excited for tonight. I had lot of things in my head. I am grateful it came off. We needed runs on the board. We are so stoked. The last season I won't forget. It was tough. I wanted to focus on few things and give it my best.Corbin Bosch: Over the moon. Unbelieve cricket this season. We were exceptional this entire campaign. (His role) Obviously to bowl nice and quickly and death bowling as well. I'm proud to be part of such a great franchise and help them put another one on the board.Rassie van der Dussen: Batting first we knew there would be something in the wicket. But we knew if we could get off to a good start we would do well. We have been getting starts and luckily we did it one more time. Last two years we have been bouncing off each other (On his partnership with Rickleton). We were confident&nbsp;coming into this game. If you are three down in the powerplay you could lose the game so we wanted to take care of that. What a place to play the final.Ryan Rickleton: Incredible&nbsp;tournament, to come last first two years and then win now is amazing. It (Wanderers) was an incredible place to play. Effort behind the scene&nbsp;is amazing, everyone stepped up. (We are going to celebrate) until this time tomorrow (smiles).

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"To come last in the first two years and then win now feels incredible"

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Clinical, dominant, right-on-the-money, consistent, WINNERS. The redemption arc is complete. MI Cape Town are the 2025 SA20 Champions! Keeping in line with how effective the team and how dominating the team has been right through the league stage, getting on a roll and winning match after match, this final was pretty much a reflection of the same. We refused to take the foot off the accelerator and refused to slow down until we landed the silverware. Mumbai. New York. Emirates. Cape Town. Each of the teams in the MI Family now has a Winner’s trophy in its cabinet!&nbsp;We’ve risen above them all. 2025 has gotten off to a brilliant start!&nbsp;The RRs lay the platformThis seriously has been some God-level consistency. Rassie van der Dussen (23) and Ryan Rickelton (33) once again got the team off to a brilliant start, getting to 50 inside the fifth over. Match after match, it’s been their opening stand that has almost been a guarantee for MI Cape Town, allowing the rest of the batters to ease up and stay pressure free.&nbsp;The Brevis explosion&nbsp;Connor Esterhuizen, with his 26-ball 39, and George Linde, with his 14-ball 20, counter-attacked and just didn’t let the momentum dip after three wickets fell in quick succession. But the big boost came via young Dewald Brevis, who continued his top form in the final. Four sixes, two fours, and 18 balls later for his 38, he made sure MI Cape Town had successfully set themselves a 180+ total on the board.&nbsp;Another game sealed in the powerplay, ft. TB and KGKagiso Rabada got David Bedingham in his first over, Trent Boult got Jordan Hermann in his second, and together, they broke the back of the Sunrisers Eastern Cape chase even before it had begun. Just when Tony de Zorzi and Tom Abell got a small partnership going, the spinners in Rashid Khan and George Linde made sure there was no twist in the tale. The wickets kept tumbling, the asking rate kept going up, we kept getting nearer.&nbsp;And finally, off 18.4, when Rabada got Richard Gleeson to chip one to cover, the roof went off. The Wanderers was painted in Blue and Gold. The players and the fans know what an epic feat this is and what it means to everybody after the two tough seasons.&nbsp;Kaapstad, where’s the party tonight?!

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WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS! SAY IT AGAIN, MI CAPE TOWN – SA20 2025 CHAMPIONS!!

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It simply doesn’t get any bigger. A team that’s on a roll, topping the league table, winning the first Qualifier in style, a team in top form versus a side that’s coming in as two-time champions, having fought their way up in the second half of the league to make it into the final. The iconic Bullring, two iconic teams, one iconic rivalry, and at the end of it all, one winner who takes it all.&nbsp;“We are the team that was at the bottom for two years and now we are at the top. We have been playing some amazing cricket for the past month. It’s not about who the opposition is. They are playing good cricket as well. Losing three in a row first up and then coming into the final is a big achievement as well. They have the experience of playing in the final in the last two years. We are just focusing on playing good cricket and focusing on what we did well in the last one month to get here. That would be the challenge for us than thinking, ‘oh, they’ve been unbeaten in the playoffs’. I don’t think we should have that in mind. It’s about the mindset, effort and approach, which would be key,” said our skipper Rashid Khan at the press conference on the eve of the Final.&nbsp;These are two sides who’ve produced some epic contests so far. In the first two seasons, there were some real nailbiters, and unfortunately, we came out on the wrong side of those results. But this season has been different. We’ve won both games against the Sunrisers Eastern Cape, each one very comfortably. These are two teams with a mega fan base, and there’s everything in store to make your Saturday night a blockbuster!&nbsp;&nbsp;What: THE FINAL, MI Cape Town vs Sunrisers Eastern Cape&nbsp;When: February 8, 2025 | 17:30 local time, 21:00 ISTWhere: The Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg&nbsp;What to expect: Keep your popcorn handy. And then your celebratory dance for the end of the evening. There never is a shortage of sixes on this ground. It’s a place that’s hosted some legendary finals in the past, and there’s no reason why we aren’t in for another!&nbsp;

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THE FINAL | MICTvSEC preview: Orange vs Blue is RED HOT

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It’s bee some turnaround for MI Cape Town. After finishing at the bottom of the table for two seasons to now top the league table and then become the first side to qualify for the SA20 2025 Final. Rashid Khan, the captain, takes a lot&nbsp; of pride in the team’s success. He was at the captain’s press conference ahead of the Final against the Sunrisers Eastern Cape, and spoke about a range of topics. Excerpts..&nbsp;Thoughts on the Final&nbsp;It’s different for us as a team, qualifying for the playoffs for the first time and topping the table. For us, it is just about focusing on what we can do on the day. We are the team that was at the bottom for two years and now we are at the top. We have been playing some amazing cricket for the past month. It’s not about who the opposition is. They are playing good cricket as well. Losing three in a row first up and then coming into the final is a big achievement as well. They have the experience of playing in the final in the last two years. We are just focusing on playing good cricket and focusing on what we did well in the last one month to get here. That would be the challenge for us than thinking, ‘oh, they’ve been unbeaten in the playoffs’. I don’t think we should have that in mind. It’s about the mindset, effort and approach, which would be key.&nbsp;On the leadership group at MI Cape Town&nbsp;It's very good to have players who have that experience. In South Africa, you see different conditions everywhere. To have those players around who give you the best information about the wickets and conditions is great. We have players who are mostly from here (Jo’burg) like Ryan Rickelton and KG (Rabada). They know the conditions and know how to play. It gives us a plus as a team. It really helps to get the information you need. We have 60-70 percent of the players who are from this part. But still it’s a T20, you have to play good cricket. We have played some great cricket throughout the competition. We adjusted ourselves to conditions and have responded to pressure situations well. That for me is the outstanding point. Whenever we were under pressure in the group games with bat, ball and on the field, we responded well. That will be the key for tomorrow as well.&nbsp;On wanting to be captain again after the first season&nbsp;When I got a call from MI Cape Town and they asked me if I wanted to lead the team, I was very excited and said I wanted to. When I left we were at the bottom of the table in the first season and I didn’t come in the second season because of my back problem. It was a big challenge for me and I said ‘yes, I am fully ready’. It was the first time leading a franchise side, which was a different experience for me as well. Leading in the World Cup gave me the confidence and energy I needed as a captain. That really helped me. That’s the challenge I wanted this year as well. I wanted to lead the team. It is just about keeping things simple and thinking about what we could do in the future. As a team that is what was more important for us. I didn’t change much after coming. I just said, ‘look, forget about the result. It is just about effort’. That’s what we are focusing on. That’s all I want from the team. I don’t want results. I want efforts. When you have efforts, more often than not, you get the results.Whether having a couple of days off is an advantage&nbsp;I think it gives you the advantage where your body recovers for the next game. To be honest, we haven’t done much. I just watch Netflix a lot (laughs). The schedule was very busy throughout the tournament. We just took a few days off. Some guys stayed at home. We stayed in the hotel, went out for shopping. We refreshed our bodies and made sure we were ready for the game.&nbsp;On dealing with different conditions in South Africa&nbsp;It’s quite important that we have a leadership group around a team. As an overseas captain, it is always hard. Having that leadership group to discuss things makes your job easier. We discuss things about the opposition and it makes my job easier. Sometimes it is hard for me to communicate with the boys, and they can do that in different conditions. Every ground in South Africa is different. You are making sure you are having the most of the knowledge about the pitches. I felt it was something I was missing in the first year. This year we have that a lot and it really helps you. It is a huge advantage having those senior players around. You can be more relaxed on the field.&nbsp;On the squad for this season&nbsp;You get the confidence as a captain to do the best for the team. I knew we had the best team. Like the other day, even when we had 7-8 guys resting, the other guys came on and won with a bonus point. Shows how good the team is. I was excited about the challenges.&nbsp;On the plans for Sunrisers Easter CapeIf I tell you, you will tell them (laughs). Nothing different. You know the strong and weak points. You know yourself too. Doesn’t matter who the opposition is, as long as you believe in your skills, you can beat them. They have been the most consistent side in the playoffs as well but for us, it is just to have the positive mindset and accept the challenges.&nbsp;On working well with Robbie PetersonWil Robbie, I had a good time in the first year as well. In the MLC, I had an amazing time with him as the coach. As soon as I head he would be leading as the Coach at MI Cape Town as well, I was happy. He is someone who always gives you positive energy as a captain. Having a good relationship with the coach is important. We know what we are doing. So far I have really enjoyed. I have learnt a lot from him. He keeps the environment very positive. That’s something that really helps.On missing Ben Stokes this seasonBen Stokes, we know is one of the best all-rounders. His availability is very important for each team. We still have that kind of a team where we have a backup for each player. We have the skills where if one guy doesn’t do well, there are other guys who take the responsibility forward. It shows how strong the bench and the team is. It was a huge blow for us, but we have the combination where we could recover.&nbsp;On becoming the world’s leading wicket-taker in T20s&nbsp;It’s a proud moment for me to be the leading wicket taker. It’s been eight or nine years since I’ve been playing cricket and to be the leading wicket taker is something which feels like a dream. Big milestone for me. I will try and keep it with me. We love this game and which is why we wanted to play. As a kid, you only have one thing in mind, which is to enjoy. I play this game for enjoyment. The more you enjoy, the better you perform. You always keep that in mind, we make sure we have fun out there and make sure we make our family and friends proud. We can only give our 100%.&nbsp;What he watches on Netflix and in his downtime&nbsp;I’m mostly watching Indian movies on Netflix. I am watching Prison Break, it gives you an idea of how to get out of difficult situations (laughs). Going from one city to another is difficult. That’s where your experience comes in on how to adjust to conditions. That’s the beauty of the life you face. To react to that and do well in different conditions is what I enjoy. If there is support for me in the wicket as a spinner, could I take five or seven wickets. If there is no support in the wicket but I take one or two wickets at a good economy is something I enjoy more. I look to do well in tough situations. That’s the beauty of this game. You have to have a mindset that nothing would be easy. As soon as you start finding excuses for yourself, that’s when you start going down.&nbsp;Thoughts on the SA20 leagueI really enjoyed here. In the first year, I had the best time. It’s the biggest league after the IPL. In the first year, the biggest challenge I faced was to adjust to different conditions. I understood what should be the adjustment and how I should be bowling this year. I feel I have done better this time than what I did in the first year. As a captain, earlier, I was putting too much on myself. If we were losing the game, I was only blaming myself. This year, I kept it simple. It was about trying to give 200 percent to the team. So far, whatever I have done, how I have bowled four overs in different cities, I am happy with my bowling. As a captain having those discussions before the game would help make you a better captain, and makes you mentally strong as well.&nbsp;

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“Mindset, effort and approach would be the key for the Final”: Rashid Khan

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Kagiso Rabada has been a true warhorse for MI Cape Town and for the Proteas over the last several years. Coming back from a couple of tough seasons in the previous two editions of the SA20, he’s been a key figure in this MICT side, chipping in with useful performances in every game and carrying the side into the final. After another such performance, with figures of 2/18 in his four overs in the Qualifier against Paarl Royals, he was out at the post-match press conference. Excerpts..&nbsp;On getting into the FinalWe’re glad we ticked that off. Not taking anything for granted. Great start by Ryan (Rickelton) and Rassie (van der Dussen) and then well followed by the middle order. So, everyone’s ready to play and that’s what saw today. With the ball, under pressure, we responded well. We’ve done that all tournament and hopefully we do that in the final.&nbsp;On what has changed for the team from last yearWe’ve always had the players, but now we got together. The senior group had a lot to do with pulling everyone together. Also a familiarity between the players. The South African players are backing each other. We have been playing two overseas players in quite a few games. Everyone on the bench is looking to make an impact. Anyone can come in anytime. Everyone is ready to play. That hunger is there. It was always there but we got together as a team to put in those crucial performances at crucial times. That’s what’s getting us over the line.&nbsp;Whether playing the Test match last month was good preparation for this wicketThis is a completely new tournament. There’s so much cricket being played that you have to hark everything that has happened before. Coming back to this field always brings good memories. The fans here are really good. Nice to come here and play here. Big cricket following and enthusiastic crowd. But I wasn’t thinking much about the Test match. Just looking at this game and winning it.&nbsp;On the impact of SA20 on local players&nbsp;The nice thing about the SA20 is that it exposes young players to high level of cricket. It would be nice for youngsters coming up to lift their hands against good quality opposition. You have players coming from overseas and also coaches. The youngsters coming in have an exciting platform. They are enthusiastic to show their skills and talent. They learn a lot faster, especially in the shorter format. That’s the positive about the SA20. You can see certain players playing in our local setup being pushed to this platform being surrounded by Proteas players, overseas players and overseas coaches. There can only be one way and that is upwards.&nbsp;On the pitches being bowling friendly in this year’s SA20In cricket, generally, there must be something for either batter or bowler. You don’t want one way traffic in most games. You have to leave something for both batters and bowlers. It forces the batter to play some good shots and bowlers to bowl good balls more often than not and you get rewarded. If it is too flat most of the times, you’d might as well call it batting and not cricket. The pitches were good in Newlands because we were chasing scores of 160+ and setting scores of 160-170+. It brought both departments into play. In South Africa there is always something for the bowlers. Up north, there is something for the seamers and on the coast there is more for the spinners. That’s what we’ve seen. Along the line, you need balance. When teams have been three or four down in the powerplay, they always bounce back and score 160. But this season, I must say, the bowlers have been enjoying themselves.&nbsp;Thoughts on MI Cape Town’s bowling attackI think it’s a very good bowling attack. Boulty (Trent)- has been dominating world cricket for a long time now. Rashid (Khan) has been doing it. I’ve been trying. Geroge (Linde) has been bowling really well and (Corbin) Bosch is showing the world what he can do. It’s really well balanced bowling attack, there’s spin and seam. There’s always a threat coming your way and it is a testament to the results we’ve produced.&nbsp;On which team he’d like to face in the finalWe are excited. Really excited. We’ll play anyone. We can’t wait.&nbsp;On what inspires him and young kidsSeeing legends of the game play and perform well on a world’s platform gets you riled up and wanting to be like them, if not better. One thing to represent your country and win as many games as you can for your country, because cricket is one of the biggest sports in the world and a lot of people get to know about it. For me, it was that and being inspired to be like the people I watched.&nbsp;

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“There’s always a threat coming your way with our bowling, that’s why we are in the final”: Rabada

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You read that right. MI Cape Town are on a roll, an unstoppable roll, and have stormed into the SA20 2025 Final in some style with a thumping win over the Paarl Royals. Every box was checked. Every department clicked. Talk about peaking at the right time! It really means a lot to the team and the fans who’ve stuck through and come out with a bang after a couple of tough seasons. Oh, we cannot keep calm!!!&nbsp;Another day, another RR showThey were back after a game’s break, but it was as if they were never away. An 87-run opening stand off just 55 balls, with Rassie van der Dussen contributing 40 and Ryan Rickelton, a 27-ball 44 to set the tone and the platform for MI Cape Town’s innings.&nbsp;DB, Linder, Delano unleash further fireworks&nbsp;Although three wickets fell in quick time, the attack didn’t stop. Dewald Brevis, promoted up to number three, played a mature anchor’s role (44 off 30), while George Linde cut loose with a 14-ball 26 and Delano Potgieter took it up a notch with his 17-ball 32, propelling MI Cape Town to 199/4 in their 20 overs, a great score in what otherwise has been a low-scoring venue.&nbsp;Royals derailed in the powerplayA case of another game decided in the powerplay with the ball.. and as usual, it was courtesy the usual suspects, Trent Boult, Kagiso Rabada and Corbin Bosch, sharing the spoils and sending back the top three inside the fifth over. And then it was up to the spinners, weaving their usual web that the Royals just couldn’t get out of. It was just at one stage when David Miller struck a few big ones that there looked like a scope of there being a fight in the game, but nah, good ol’ Linde made sure there wasn’t.&nbsp;In the process Rashid Khan has become the HIGHEST WICKET-TAKER IN T20 HISTORY. Yea, that’s some feat from our champion. It’s the perfect double whammy for him as he leads the team into the final. Kaapstad, are you ready to paint the world in Blue and Gold come Saturday?

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MICTvPR Report: WOOHOOO!!!! WE ARE INTO THE SA20 2025 FINAL!

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Let’s get a few things out of the way: It’s been a wonderful league stage, something MI Cape Town have absolutely bossed. We’ve also managed to finish first on the points table, putting behind our disappointment of not getting into playoffs over the last two seasons in style. That said, this is the business end. This is what matters. This is what we’ve been playing for. This is what all the planning and training over the past one month will come down to.&nbsp;We’re facing the Paarl Royals, a team who’ve also had a good league stage. The equation stands at 1-1 between both teams. Both games were pretty convincing wins as well for either side. They’ve perhaps been saving the thriller for the playoffs. We are coming off a four match winning streak. The Royals are coming off two losses. We have the momentum. Let’s ride the winning wave and jump directly into Saturday’s Finale, shall we?What: First Qualifier, MI Cape Town vs Paarl Royals&nbsp;When: February 4, 2025 | 17:30 local time, 21:00 IST&nbsp;Where: St. George’s Park, Gqeberha&nbsp;What to expect: This has generally been a bat-first venue and even 160 is a good score to defend. Trust our batters to break records though like they’ve been doing all season!&nbsp;

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Qualifier 1 | MICTvPR preview: Let’s book a direct Saturday Finale date

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Seven wins, five of them bonus points, and a top of the table finish to this year’s SA20. It’s been some turnaround, and Head Coach Robin Peterson, can take a lot of pride in the group. After MI Cape Town’s final league game, he was at the post-match press conference speaking about a range of topics. Excerpts..&nbsp;On what worked well for MICT this seasonI just think we have added a few experienced players to the dressing room this year, so there is a bit of calm there, a bit of leadership alongside getting Rashid Khan back. He has been outstanding in the background. Guys like Rassie, Ryan, Colin Ingram, Dane Piedt, I can speak of the whole squad here. They want to win. They want to support each other. They take nothing for granted. They are just enjoying cricket and each others’ company, which is the biggest difference in the last two years.&nbsp;On qualifying for the playoffs after two years&nbsp;It does feel a lot better. The owners and the management above me have put a lot of effort into the team. They support the boys. There is a big week ahead. We haven’t been here in two years. It’s exciting times as a group. Everybody is jumping up to go on Tuesday.&nbsp;On the batting conditions this season &nbsp;The conditions have been challenging. But as batters, I think, sometimes you limit yourselves a little bit. You have to find ways to put big totals on the board. We try to get a match-winning total with the bat. That’s something the batters have bought in to. It is come from last year. Guys like Rassie and Ricks continued in that fashion this year. Guys like Reeza, Brevis, playing the way he is, George Linde, have really stepped it up this season. Probably would be different in playoffs. Sometimes you have be more pragmatic in certain situations, but the DNA of this team is to be attacking and they should never leave that for the next week.&nbsp;Thoughts on Dane Piedt, the team man&nbsp;Piedt has brought in is experience. He is a winner. He is a Cape Town player and understands the conditions. That always helps. He brings the energy in every single game for the boys. Sometimes when they are tired and have to play the next game, the dugout is absolutely energetic because of Dane Piedt and how he drags the guys with him. He has added a lot more than taking just 3/20 today. For the whole tournament he has been our standout performer even though he’s played just one game.&nbsp;On how the players on the bench managed to perform so well&nbsp;It's confidence. That is rubbing off on each other. You don’t see the hardwork they put in day in and day out even though they aren’t playing, in the gyms, in the data analysis rooms. To give them the opportunity today, as the Head Coach, is something you are pleased about because it is not only about lifting the trophy. It is a squad effort. We truly now believe that everyone has played a role in getting us there.&nbsp;On this being Dewald Brevis’ breakthrough season&nbsp;I’ve seen glimpses of it in the Major Cricket League in America. He carried us through to the final. He is capable of doing special things with the bat. Dewald, as a young guy, things happened quickly for him. Sometimes you have to fall and get back on the bike. You can see, talking to him, the way he prepares and the maturity in his batting and bowling. It can only happen from young guys falling, learning harsh lessons and coming back stronger. That’s testament to his resilience. He has a long way to go. He can be a brilliant player not just for South Africa, but even for us going forward.Whether having a lot of players from up North will help the team in the playoffs&nbsp;It’s on the day. If we get to the Final, we have a lot of Lions players in our team. It just happened organically to be honest. There was no pre-planned acquisition behind getting them. A lot of guys have developed their game in the last two years to be honest. The country guys have learnt how to play in the coast and the coastal guys have learnt how to play in the country. That experience will stand us in good stead going forward. Hopefully my local knowledge of St. George’s Park might give us the edge. But we are up against a formidable opponent against Paarl Royals, who also have something good going on in their environment. It’s going to be a tough game on Tuesday, but the guys are looking forward to it.&nbsp;On what has worked in the team environment&nbsp;I’ve been here for a while. The franchise knows Tristan (Luus). The franchise was trying to get a game for their rookie, which they managed now. Once you get clear about your role and there is communication and alignment, whether you are the 18th or the sixth player in your team, it’s a very valuable thing. It showed today. You can just bring people in and still feel confident of getting the job done. We didn’t feel like we were weakening the team by any stretch of imagination. We felt like we were re-energizing the group going into this week and glad it paid off.&nbsp;On having a lot of experience in the squad&nbsp;It’s always great to have a lot of experience. Colin Ingram, Matthew Potts, who has played international cricket, come in with a wealth of experience. They know it is important that we don’t just go through the motions and try to win it regardless of the amount of changes we made. Rashid’s leadership has been instrumental to be honest. The way he has grown into the position as the season has gone on, I can take my hat off. He wanted to play at Newlands in the last game at home, but he sacrificed his position so that Thomas Kaber can play, and it speaks volumes of his leadership in the team.&nbsp;On creating a leadership groupFirstly players are going to want to be a part of that. A lot of meetings, a lot of get-togethers, communication, getting guys aligned on what is required on the day, was needed. Everybody added their value, guys like KG (Rabada) and Trent Boult. Sometimes it is robust conversation, but it is part if you want to win anything. You have to get to the crux of what is bothering you and what needs to change quickly. You want to be flexible. It is something that’s worked really nicely for us.&nbsp;Thoughts on the tight scheduling&nbsp;Definitely more space would be helpful. That’s one of the challenges of the tournament. The scheduling, the planning, the breaks adds an extra dimension to the thought process. But I do feel a little bit of downtime would be helpful. That is why we were provided the opportunity to rest some of our guys today, thinking ahead. If things don’t go to plan on Tuesday, we might have to play three games in five days. That was also a part of our thought process besides giving guys an opportunity. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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“Piedt energizes the whole group; he’s been our standout performer”: Coach Robin Peterson

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Some of the big guns were resting. There was a bit of experimentation. But the dominance stayed intact. MI Cape Town, at the top of the table, just strengthened their stay up there. And showed the world just why we are where we are on the points table.&nbsp;Atal-Connor do an RRIt just didn’t look like Rassie van der Dussen and Ryan Rickelton were resting. Sediqullah Atal and Connor Esterhuizen stepped up effortlessly, putting on a 133-run opening stand and laying the foundation for MI Cape Town to get past 200. Striking at nearly 11 runs an over, the two matched each other shot for shot, got half-centuries, and were so pleasing to watch!&nbsp;Spin it to win itDefending 201, the game was sealed inside the powerplay itself. Dane Piedt, off the first ball he’s bowled in the season, got the dangerous Will Jacks. This is how the collapse went:0-1 (Will Jacks, 0.1)15-2 (Steve Stolk, 2.2)32-3 (Will Smeed, 4.2)32-4 (Marques Ackerman, 4.3)32-5 (Kyle Verreynne, 4.4)The PC innings just didn’t recover as wickets kept falling at regular intervals. In the end, Piedt took three, Thomas Kaber took three, George Linde took a couple and Dewald Brevis took one as the Capitals folded out in 14 overs for just 106.Many firstsColin Ingram was captain, and led superbly on the field with his bowling changes absolutely strangling the Pretoria batters. &nbsp;Piedt, playing his first game of the season, with his three-wicket haul, was named the Player of the Match. Kaber lapped up another three-fer. &nbsp;Newlands, you’ve been absolutely stunning through the league stage. Most of our home games were sold you, the backing MI Cape Town got all through was amazing, and we will carry this momentum and energy as we move forward into the playoffs. We now have our next game, the First Qualifier on February 4 in Gqeberha against the Paarl Royals. A win there would take us directly into the Final. Kaapstad, we BELIEVE!

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MICTvPC report: Just casually reiterating our dominance with a 95-run win

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On paper, our last league game is set to have no consequence to our playoff standings. MI Cape Town have already qualified and have confirmed a berth in the top two as well. There’s scope for experimentation. There’s scope to give some of our boys some rest. There’s an opportunity to try out different combinations. We are currently at the top of the table. We know what this means to all of us after a couple of tough seasons. Let’s keep this winning roll going..&nbsp;This game isn’t one of consequence for the Pretoria Capitals either, who’ve been eliminated from this year’s SA20. But they could be desperate to end their campaign on a high. We will be vary. This also marks our last home game of the season. You’ve been a beauty, Newlands, through the highs and lows. We’ve made some amazing memories here. This one’s for you!&nbsp;What: MI Cape Town vs Pretoria Capitals&nbsp; When: February 2, 2025 | 15:30 local time, 19:00 IST Where: Newlands, Cape Town What to expect: A fiercely loyal crowd in the Blue and Gold egging is on. And a surface that will have something in it for everyone: batters, quicks, spinners.&nbsp;

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Match 10 | MICTvPC preview: Dead rubber? Nah. More like momentum grabber

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Runs, wickets, crazy catches, he’s had them all. Dewald Brevis was always talked about as this prodigy, but he’s had a tough couple of seaons at the start. But come 2025, he seems to have announced his arrival in some style. Here he is, at the post-match press conference at the end of his epic 32-ball 73-run knock against the Pretoria Capitals. Excerpts..On MI Cape Town’s consistent run in the tournament&nbsp;I’m very grateful for it. We are playing well as a team so that is the best. Really great to contribute for the team. All of us are team players. We are giving it our all.&nbsp;On his own game&nbsp;I am really enjoying the cricket. Focusing on a few things, one of them is playing with a smile. The team is doing great and everyone is just doing what they have to do.On the discussions with Reeza Hendricks in the middle&nbsp;It’s the first time I think I’m batting with Reeza Hendricks. I told him I need to go on one knee and try and sweep. But he told me to focus on hitting it straight. In the end when he hit that beautiful six, he told me the same thing that he wanted to lap it. Then I told him the same thing that the bowler was under pressure and would miss. We complemented each other well. He is a great timer of the ball and he batted unreal. We were calm out there. Just watching the ball and staying in the moment.&nbsp;On his superb bowling form&nbsp;There’s only one person I can give credit to. It is someone I have been working with in the IPL and over here for the past three years. It is Rahul Sanghvi. He is so special. He lit the fire inside me with the leg-spin. He helps me a lot. I’ve bowled a thousand balls in the IPL and here. Rash (Rashid Khan) as well. We talk so much about bowling. We warm up together. I watch how he does things. Great to have him as a captain and a leg-spinner. I love bowling.&nbsp;On turning things around after a quiet couple of seasons&nbsp;Cricket is a roller-coaster. You have your ups and downs. The one thing I am focusing on now is to be Dewald and to play the way I want to play. That’s how I played when I got onto the scene and in school. I am finding ways to be consistent in that way. There was a phase when I listened to a lot of people and I tried to be too clever. I tried to figure out the game. There is something I am doing that leads to being Dewald Brevis. That’s the main thing I want to do. I want to play with a smile and enjoy it.&nbsp;Plans for the playoffsDefinitely the important part of the tournament we are entering now. Everyone has to contribute and we have to play well as a team. Everyone’s going to get turns. You want to be that guy at every single game, whether it is fielding, batting, bowling. We take it game by game, ball by ball and off the field we stay close to each other as well.&nbsp; On what goes on in his head while hitting sixes&nbsp;I love it. It’s just about watching it and playing the ball. Whether it is short or it is full, we have to try and hit the middle of the bat. Just playing the ball on merit. It went well and I’m grateful for it.&nbsp;

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“Just looking to be Dewald Brevis and playing with a smile”: Brevis

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“So happy with the way we played. Especially having those couple of tough years and then coming back and the way everyone played was pleasing.”Rashid Khan was all of us at the end of the game. 2023 and 2024 have been difficult seasons. This qualification into the play-offs, and to go a step further and secure a berth in the top two has been something we’ve manifested all along. We’ve done it through an epic win over the Pretoria Capitals where our batters just out-batted them all along.&nbsp;The run-fest that never seemed to stopRassie van der Dussen: 30 runs | 20 balls | 1 four | 3 sixesRyan Rickelton: 22 runs | 13 balls | 4 fours | 1 six&nbsp;Reeza Hendricks: 77 runs | 44 balls | 4 fours | 5 sixes&nbsp;Colin Ingram: 16 runs | 12 balls | 2 fours | 1 six&nbsp;Dewald Brevis: 73 runs | 32 balls | 6 fours | 6 sixesThat should tell you the story. It was a smash-a-thon that just didn’t stop in the first innings. Not until MI Cape Town ran out of deliveries, ending with 222/3 in their 20 overs.&nbsp;DB and his maximumsYoung Dewald Brevis walked into bat in the ninth over, and wasted no time in getting in. The fourth ball he faced a monstrous six. And they kept flowing, to all parts of the ground in a display of sensational clean hitting.&nbsp;&nbsp;Regular wickets puncture Capitals’ chase&nbsp;The Pretoria batters got starts, hit a few big ones too, but MI Cape Town’s bowlers kept getting regular breakthroughs to ensure they were always well behind the asking rate. Trent Boult, as always, struck in the powerplay, Corbin Bosch and Rashid Khan chipped in with two wickets each. In the end, the mountain of 223 was too steep for the Capitals to climb.

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PCvMICT report: A complete smash-a-thon and WE’VE SEALED A TOP TWO BERTH!

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There’s a nice ring to it: WE ARE INTO THE PLAYOFFS. After two tough seasons, this is exactly what we wanted to hear. Let’s say it again..&nbsp;“We want to finish on top, which will be a testament to the team doing all the right things. We were at the bottom for the last two seasons, so what a way to finish on top leading into the play-offs,” said Corbin Bosch at the end of the previous game after MI Cape Town’s record win over the Sunrisers Eastern Cape.&nbsp;So, here’s our next mission: To finish in the top two and have two cracks of making it to the Final. With 25 points and a solid net run-rate of +2.205, we have a solid chance of sealing it with one win. The Pretoria Capitals are up next in a back-to-back clash. They are a side on 14 points and would be desperate for a win to stay in the playoff hunt. All in all, there’s everything in this one to light up your Friday evening.&nbsp;&nbsp;What: Pretoria Capitals vs MI Cape Town&nbsp;When: January 31, 2025 | 17:30 local time, 21:00 ISTWhere: SuperSport Park, CenturionWhat to expect: The conditions at the SuperSport Park have ranged from the extreme of 212 being chased down to a team getting skittled out for under 100. But a large chunk of the South African boys in our side are from the North and would know what to expect. Bring it on!

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Match 9 | PCvMICT preview: Playoffs checked, let’s now get into the top two

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Whatever he touched, turned to gold. It’s been that kind of a month in fact for Corbin Bosch, the star for MI Cape Town with the ball against Sunrisers Eastern Cape in their ten-wicket win. He was out at the post-match press conference sharing his thoughts. Excerpts..&nbsp;On the team’s success&nbsp;We have gelled very well together and it’s helped that a lot of a players have been in form throughout the competition. It is someone else putting up their hand. The guys at the top have batted beautifully and that on the batting front has helped set up games. As a bowling group, we have taken wickets at crucial times which has allowed us to be in winning positions.&nbsp;On his personal success in the last month&nbsp;It’s been an incredible month. Six months ago I wouldn’t have thought I would have played two different formats for my country. So I’m just absolutely grateful I can play and contribute to my side’s success.&nbsp;On Dewald Brevis’ stunning catch&nbsp;When I saw the ball go to Dewald (Brevis), I saw him charging in and I thought, “please don’t go over your head”, but then he took an absolute screamer. If there was someone to do it, it was him. My caught and bowled, I don’t think I saw it for very long. I played some hockey at school and was a keeper (laughs) so I’m going to pay testament to that. They either stick or they don’t. I dropped Aiden Marram in the first, so I’m glad I managed to get this one today.&nbsp;Thoughts while preparing for a game&nbsp;I am just enjoying my cricket at this time. My childhood dream was to play cricket for my country, or be a doctor (laughs). Any opportunity, I am going to enjoy myself. Who knows how long it’ll last. Every time I step onto the field, I’m going to give my 100%. This Newlands crowd has given me that extra bit of boost. I can feed off that amazing crowd in an iconic ground in the world.&nbsp;Whether the team is dreaming of playing in the Final already&nbsp;Definitely not. The guys are very professional. We still want to take it one game at a time. We’ve got a game to win in Pretoria. We want to finish on top, which will be a testament to the team doing all the right things. We were at the bottom for the last two seasons, so what a way to finish on top leading into the play-offs.&nbsp;If he knew he was on a hat-trickI didn’t realize. I didn’t know I was on a hat-trick. It should have come up on the TV. I would’ve tried a better ball than the one I ended up bowling (laughs).&nbsp;On bowling and working with Trent Boult&nbsp;I think we’ve gotten along very well. I met him in the IPL in 2022. He is a character and I enjoy feeding off him. He has got a lot of stories. It’s just good value to be around. I am here to enjoy my cricket and he has played a very good part in that.&nbsp;Thoughts on the next game at Pretoria&nbsp;It’ll help with 75% of our squad from up north while playing our game in Pretoria on Friday. It will give us some edge on conditions leading into the playoffs. A lot of our team plays their cricket up north and it is an advantage. But at the end of the day, you have to deliver you ball on the day.&nbsp;On Rashid Khan, the captain&nbsp;Very calm. He has trusted me to do the things I want to do. He is very motivating. He’s been very positive and a very good vibe. The whole team is gelling very well together. It’s such a fantastic atmosphere. Fortunate to have the owner here today. He’s been a massive part of the success of this team. So just grateful that he’s made his way out. What a way to perform in front of him. It’s been special.&nbsp;On the Newlands being a full house&nbsp;Sell-out crowds give you that extra percent when you need it. Newlands is that crowd that really watches the cricket. It’s always nice being on the receiving end of the cheering. The support here has been phenomenal. I urge all Cape Townians to come out on Friday so that we can give them back one final time.&nbsp;

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“Rashid very motivating, he trusts me to do things the way I want to”: Corbin Bosch

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It just doesn’t get any better. Talk about setting the record right! The defending champs, a team we hadn’t beaten for the first two seasons, have been totally bossed tonight! And as skipper Rashid Khan put it at the end of the game, “To be honest, we had a tough couple of years but this time we gelled as a team and spoke about doing the basics right. We wanted to forget the last two years and focus on our results for this year. Everyone is taking responsibility this year, everyone is contributing. The crowd support also has been fantastic, they give us that extra energy.”The bowling does the jobKagiso Rabada and Trent Boult set the tone right at the start: no loose balls, regular wickets, constant pressure. And the SEC batters just didn’t get away in the powerplay. And then of course, it was time for the show, for a new bowler to put his hand up and win a match for us. It’s been the story of the season, and there’s nothing more heartwarming!&nbsp;Corbin Bosch, the Hero20 balls, 19 runs, 4 wickets. It doesn’t get any more comprehensive. He just blew away the tail, ensuring the Sunrisers finished with a paltry 107.&nbsp;Brevis, and THAT stunnerDewald Brevis was fielding at deep square leg. Abell pulled the ball fiercely towards him, and Brevis seemed to have lost it against the sun. It was going beyond him. But then suddenly, out of nowhere, he just stuck out his right palm, and the ball stuck to snaffle an absolute stunner. Oh, the mother of blinders!&nbsp;Done and dusted in a hurryThe story of them opening the innings and putting on big scores is nothing new. Tonight though, it wasn’t just big, it was fully done. Bringing home yet another bonus point, they went on a boundary spree, and took just 11 overs to chase down the total. Rassie van der Dussen finished with a 30-ball 48. Ryan Rickelton ended with a 36-ball 59.&nbsp;Kaapstad, we’ve strengthened a top two finish. The sell-out crowd in the stands was a treat to watch, singing and cheering on the boys in Blue and Gold. With two more league games to go, we are peaking at the right time. Onwards, upwards, stronger!&nbsp;

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