Monday 3 March 25: The report on WBHS 1st XI vs SACS, as published in the Cape Argus – re-published, with permission of and credit to, Mogamat Goosain Abrahams.
The traditional 50-over derby encounter between fierce rivals Wynberg and SACS played at the Jacques Kallis Oval was a tense affair. It was only a late rally by their lower-order batsmen that enabled hosts Wynberg to prevail by three wickets.
SACS won the toss and had no hesitation in electing to bat on a wicket that is normally flat. However, they lost an early wicket when opener Luke Whitehead (5) had his stumps uprooted by Damien Harris. Worse was to follow when fellow opener Matthew Hill (9) became Harris’ (2/42) second victim at 31/2.
Change bowler Josh Prince was soon in the picture, trapping Ulrich Ross (7) in front, and SACS was reduced to 56/3.
It was left to Aqeel Waggie, their number three batsman, to resurrect the innings. He showed great patience in compiling an undefeated century (100*) that included twelve boundaries off 123 balls. He curbed his natural tendencies in a risk-free innings.
Together with Leo Davies (53), they put the innings on an even keel with an 84-run partnership for the fourth wicket. Although his innings lasted 77 balls, Davies played with more intent, hitting three boundaries and clearing the pickets thrice.
They did, however, allow the pressure to mount with off spinner Fawaz Hendricks (2/36) keeping things tight. Waggie soldiered on and ,with useful assistance from the tail, reached his milestone century. After 50 overs, SACS posted a competitive 232/7.
In reply, Wynberg opener Qaeed Shaikh (7) was needlessly run out, but the arrival of Paul James signalled a change in tempo for the hosts. He made his intentions clear from the start with his aggressive approach. He was severe on anything loose, hitting a quickfire 69 off only 46 balls. His innings included 7×4 and 4×6 with a strike rate of 150.
With his departure on 97/5, SACS was very much in the game. But while the solid middle order batter Michail Tarentaal (65*) was growing in confidence, Wynberg fancied their chances.
The return to the attack of opening bowler Ronan Meintjies brought the visitors back into the game. He took two wickets for no runs, and with Wynberg 167/7, the game was once again in the balance.
But Tarentaal showed great maturity and awareness as he set about chasing down the target. He found an able partner in Josh Prince (10*) with whom he saw their side home without any further drama with three wickets remaining. Tarentaal was undefeated on 65 off 102 balls (6×4, 3×6).
Spare a thought for the inexperienced SACS side, who showed great character in a game that ebbed and flowed and could so well have ended in victory for the visitors.
