Photo Credit: Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images
Following another extended break in response to the outbreak of the Omicron variant, the Hollywoodbets Dolphins are eager to get their 4-Day Domestic Series campaign back on track when they face the Imperial Lions at Hollywoodbets Kingsmead Stadium from 13-16 January.
It’s been a frustrating four day campaign for the Dolphins to date who have had all four of their matches affected by rain which has led to four draws while their opponents have been in good form winning all four of their matches to date.
The Dolphins will be close to full strength for the clash following the break which is encouraging for coach Imraan Khan as his side prepares for a tough clash.
“Fortunately we’ve all returned negative PCR tests on Tuesday which means we’ve pretty much a fully fit squad for the match,” Khan said.
“We returned with a fitness test and the training since the return has been tough with bowlers getting their bowling loads up and the batters getting their time at the crease up.
“It’s also been really hot so it has tested the boys and they’ve been very good.”
The domestic season took a significant break over the festive period and for Khan and his charges, getting back on the field has been highly anticipated.
“The boys are excited to be back home but most importantly they are just happy to be playing cricket again after the break.
“It’s been an extended lay-off for obvious reasons but the boys are excited and ready to get going,” Khan added.
The Dolphins will come up against a strong Lions side who will provide a stern test for them at home. They are the form side but Khan is confident his team can do the job over the four days.
“They are obviously playing some very good four day cricket and it will be a nice challenge for us as a team and we are really looking forward to it.
“We want to execute our skills and focus on ourselves rather than the opposition; and if we can do that then there is no reason that we can’t test them.”
The Dolphins will welcome back Prenelan Subrayen who has been with the Proteas squad for the ongoing test series against India. The likes of Ottniel Baartman and Daryn Dupavillon are also included.
In a big plus for the Dolphins, wicket-keeper batsman Grant Roelofsen is full fit and returns to the squad for the clash.
Hollywoodbets Dolphins v Imperial Lions
Thamsanqa Khumalo, Bryce Parsons, Grant Roelofsen, Kerwin Mungroo, Marques Ackerman, Khaya Zondo, Jason Smith, Ruan De Swardt, Eathan Bosch, Prenelan Subrayen, Thando Ntini, Daryn Dupavillon, Ottniel Baartman.
Name of Author: Dolphins Cricket
The Hollywoodbets Dolphins represent KwaZulu-Natal (Coastal) in South Africa. They compete in the CSA 4-Day Series, Momentum One-Day Cup, and Mzansi Super League T20. Their home venues are Kingsmead Cricket Ground in Durban and Pietermaritzburg Oval in Pietermaritzburg.
