KNYSNA NEWS - Knysna Cavaliers Cricket Club’s 1st XI has reached the playoff of the SWD Premier League, having beaten Harlequins Forces in Rheenendal last weekend.
The game between Cavaliers and Harlequins was the deciding match in the league, with the second playoff spot up for grabs after George Cricket Club already secured the first playoff spot.
The equation was simple – lose and you’re out of the league, win and you’re into the playoff. With that in mind, captains JP Ellis and Rhupino Plaatjies conducted the toss with Cavaliers skipper Ellis winning and electing to bat first.
A balanced Cavaliers batting performance saw them reach 224 all out, with Irvin Campher top scoring with his best knock of the season – 70 not out off 78 deliveries. AB van der Walt also contributed with bat in hand, scoring 43 runs. Harlequins were faced with a tough ask as a determined Cavaliers bowling line-up lay in wait.
The visiting side was unable to put up much of a fight, and the Cavaliers bowlers put in a disciplined effort. Irvin Campher shone with ball in hand once again, claiming three wickets for only 10 runs in 6.2 overs. Harlequins were bowled out for 121, handing Cavaliers a fifth consecutive win and spot in the playoff. AB van der Walt and Todd Walker also contributed with ball in hand, claiming a further two wickets each.
Cavaliers captain Ellis was beyond grateful for the support that was shown for Cavaliers at the game. “It was a really hot day on the field and the going got a bit tough at times,” Ellis admitted. “But the support from everyone who came out to support really helped us.” Cavaliers will now face off with George, whom they’ve lost to once and beaten once this season, at Rooirivierrif Sports Grounds in George this Saturday, and Ellis is again asking anyone who can, to come and support Cavaliers.
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