By Tim Douglas 
MI Cape Town began their SA20 Season 3 campaign with a resounding 97-run victory over defending champions Sunrisers Eastern Cape in a thrilling opener at St George’s Park on Thursday. The sold-out crowd witnessed an electric performance from MICT, highlighted by standout contributions from Dewald Brevis and Delano Potgieter.
Potgieter’s Career-Best Performance
Delano Potgieter stole the show with a career-best figure of 5/10, earning him the Player of the Match award. Potgieter’s remarkable spell dismantled the Sunrisers’ batting lineup, limiting them to just 77 runs. His efforts were complemented by Trent Boult’s exceptional new-ball performance, where the Kiwi pacer claimed 2/16 in a decisive spell that included a double-wicket maiden.
Boult’s early breakthrough, dismissing England Test opener Zak Crawley, set the tone for MICT’s bowling dominance, showcasing his ability to swing the ball back into right-handers effectively.
Brevis’ Explosive Start
Dewald Brevis, the 21-year-old sensation, led MICT’s batting with a blazing 57 off 29 balls, including six towering sixes. His aggressive innings laid the foundation for MICT’s total of 174/7. Brevis took on Sunrisers’ bowlers with ease, particularly targeting spinners Simon Harmer and Liam Dawson before launching straight sixes off seamer Beyers Swanepoel.
Brevis’ performance was not just a feast for the eyes but also a highlight for fans, with one of his sixes caught one-handed by Christopher Moolman, the first entrant into the Betway Catch R2 million competition for Season 3.
Late-Order Flourish
Despite losing Brevis before the final overs, MICT maintained their momentum thanks to a brisk partnership between Potgieter (25 not out) and George Linde (23 not out). The duo added an unbeaten 41 runs, taking 24 runs off the last over bowled by Marco Jansen, cementing MICT’s commanding position.
Historic Victory
This win marks MICT’s first triumph over Sunrisers Eastern Cape in five encounters since the tournament’s inception, signaling a significant turning point for the team. Robin Peterson’s side demonstrated comprehensive control in all departments, setting a strong precedent for the rest of the season.
Looking Ahead
MICT aims to build on this momentum as they prepare to face Joburg Super Kings at the Wanderers on Saturday. Meanwhile, Sunrisers Eastern Cape will seek redemption against the Paarl Royals at Boland Park on the same day.
Stay tuned for more thrilling action as SA20 Season 3 unfolds with top-tier cricket and unforgettable performances.