They may be considered heavy underdogs for their SA20 qualifier one match against Sunrisers Eastern Cape (SEC) at Kingsmead on Wednesday, but Pretoria Capitals (PC) have every reason to be optimistic according to skipper Keshav Maharaj.
The Proteas spinner admits that his side have not been the complete package this season, but there have been a number of encouraging signs to suggest they will surprise SEC as they go in search of their third SA20 title in just the fourth season.
PC have lost four and won five this season, as their inconsistency has been frustrating.
The winner of qualifier one will progress straight to the final, while the loser will take on the winner of the eliminator between Paarl Royals and Joburg Super Kings on Thursday.
Maharaj Aims for Clinical Cricket Performance Amid Durban Pitch Challenges
“We are still in search of playing a clinical game of cricket in all facets of the game. Hopefully that holds us in good stead, and we can peak at the right time in this competition,” said Maharaj.
“Bar one game, as a top order we haven’t got the starts that we wanted. Shai Hope got a 100 here last time. That was probably our best start,” Maharaj said.
“It is something we are addressing, and hopefully we can rectify that in the games that matter most.”
As for the unpredictable pitch in Durban, Maharaj said his side would be ready for the challenge.
“I’ve played first-class cricket here for the last 20 years. I understand the conditions,” Maharaj said.
“Things have changed a bit, a new groundsman taking over, so it’s about assessing the conditions on the day, and getting the boys rallied up to play with high energy and high intensity.”
@Michael_Sherman
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