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OUDTSHOORN NEWS - The Garden Route Badgers’ impressive campaign in Cricket SA’s YesPlay Pro20 Cup came to an end at Newlands on Tuesday evening, 10 November, when they suffered a five-wicket defeat against the World Sports Betting Western Province team (Cobras).
The defeat marked the Badgers’ first loss in the Super 8 stage of the competition, bringing an end to their hopes of progressing further in what has been an outstanding campaign.
After winning the toss, Cobras captain George Linde elected to bowl first, putting the Badgers in to bat on a difficult and inconsistent surface.
The visitors struggled to build momentum against a disciplined Cobras bowling attack, with Dane Paterson (2/16 in four overs) and Tshepo Moreki (2/18 in 3.3 overs) leading the charge.
Badgers captain and batting stalwart Janneman Malan once again showed his fighting spirit, top-scoring with 38 off 42 deliveries, including one six and three fours.
However, he received little support from the rest of the batting line-up as the Badgers were bowled out in the final over for a modest 99 runs.
The Cobras, in turn, were briefly put under pressure after slipping to 37/3, but experienced campaigners Kyle Verreynne and Linde steadied the innings with a crucial 49-run partnership for the fourth wicket.
Verreynne contributed 35 off 34 balls, including one six and two fours, while Linde added a quick-fire 27 from just 16 deliveries, striking one six and two fours.
Their partnership shifted the momentum firmly in the home side’s favour, with the Cobras reaching 105/5 in the 15th over to secure victory and book their place in Saturday’s semi-finals.
For the Badgers, Liam Alder was the standout bowler, claiming 2/21 in his four overs. Leo Sadler (1/18), Banele Cele (1/9) and Reagon Rhode (1/28) also contributed with a wicket apiece.
Despite the disappointing result, the Badgers can look back on a memorable campaign, having recorded seven victories in their 11 matches. Their impressive run included three notable wins against Division 1 opposition, the Titans, North West Dragons and Boland.
Although their journey in the competition has come to an end, the Badgers have certainly made their mark and can take considerable pride in what has been a remarkable season.
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