NEW DELHI: Emerging talent Lhuan-dre Pretorius is rapidly becoming a SA20 sensation, delivering a second spectacular half-century in Paarl Royals‘ victory against MI Cape Town at Boland Park on Wednesday.
His impressive 83 runs off 52 balls, including three sixes and eight boundaries, followed his debut score of 97 at the same venue.
At just 18 years old, Pretorius has swiftly gained popularity amongst Royals supporters.
In pursuit of MI Cape Town’s 158/4, Pretorius, despite being dropped twice, guided the home side to a six-wicket victory, avenging their previous loss at Newlands.
The talented left-handed batsman displayed excellent stroke play throughout, particularly dominating left-arm spinner George Linde with powerful hits over the leg-side boundary.
His innings concluded following an exceptional fielding display by MI Cape Town’s captain Rashid Khan, who executed a precise direct hit.
By then, Pretorius had secured the advantage, enabling Royals captain David Miller to finish the match with an unbeaten 22.
Earlier, MI Cape Town’s innings featured Rassie van der Dussen‘s unbeaten 91 from 64 deliveries, including five fours and five sixes.
Reeza Hendricks contributed 30 runs before being bowled by Royals’ mystery spinner Mujeeb-ur-Rahman for the second time, shifting momentum to the home team.
Mujeeb (2/27), Sri Lankan newcomer Dunith Wellalage (0/17), and Joe Root (1/24) effectively used the spin-friendly conditions, restricting MI Cape Town’s middle order.
This proved decisive as Paarl Royals moved to joint second position with Joburg Super Kings on eight points. MI Cape Town leads with nine points, having played one additional match compared to their nearest competitors.
