Ben Dunk scored a spectacular 99 off 54 balls to drive the Nelson Mandela Bay Giants to a crucial 6-wicket win against the Tshwane Spartans in a classic Mzansi Super League clash in Port Elizabeth.
Wiaan Mulder was promoted to open alongside Tony de Zorzi who got his first start for Spartans and the new-look opening pair got their side off to a good start.
The former notched up his maiden Mzansi Super League half-century that included six 4’s and a six. It was a brilliant knock by the youngster. The pair looked in complete control until De Zorzi was beautifully set up by Imran Tahir and then stumped by Ben Dunk.
AB de Villiers did what he does best and brought up his fifth half-century in the MSL and 60th career T20 half-century.
His running between the wickets with Mulder, in particular, was efficient. He scored 63 from 38 balls with six 4’s and two 6’s. They spearheaded their side to post a formidable 188/5.
Imran Tahir’s fantastic MSL campaign continued as he picked up figures of 2/28 in his 4 overs. As always he delivered and got wickets when it was desperately needed.
The Giants then completed the highest MSL chase at St George’s Park, led by a fantastic 99 off 54 balls (10 fours, 4 sixes) who entertained the home crowd spectacularly. They were 28/3 before the Australian came to the crease.
He was aided wonderfully by Marco Marais who contributed 38 off 22 balls (5 fours) in an 86-run partnership.
The win took the Giants to equal points with the Paarl Rocks, in second place behind the leaders on net run rate.
Photo: Deryck Foster/BackpagePix
