Match 17 of SA20 2025 will see the Sunrisers Eastern Cape (SEC) locking horns with the Pretoria Capitals (PC) at St George’s Park, Gqeberha, on Wednesday, January 22. This match comes at a crucial juncture in the tournament as both teams look to solidify their standings in the league table.
Match Details
- Fixture: Sunrisers Eastern Cape vs Pretoria Capitals, Match 17
- Venue: St George’s Park, Gqeberha
- Date & Time: Wednesday, January 22, 9:00 PM IST
- Live Streaming: Star Sports, Sports18 Network & Disney+ Hotstar
Pitch Report
The pitch at St George’s Park tends to slow down as the game progresses, making it challenging for batters to chase big totals. Shot selection will be key, as high-percentage strokes along the outfield could yield value. Bowlers who can vary their pace will have a distinct advantage, particularly in the second innings.
Average First Innings Score: 160
- Bowling Advantage: Bowlers who exploit the conditions with variations will thrive.
- Chasing Records: Batting second can be tricky due to the slowing pitch.
Team Previews
Sunrisers Eastern Cape (SEC)
The Sunrisers are entering this clash with momentum, having won their last two matches. Under Aiden Markram’s capable leadership, the Sunrisers have struck a fine balance between bat and ball. With Zak Crawley and David Bedingham at the top, and Markram anchoring the middle, the batting unit is well-equipped. The bowling lineup, led by Marco Jansen and Richard Gleeson, has been effective in applying pressure on the opposition.
Key Strengths:
- In-form bowling attack with Gleeson taking six wickets in his last three games.
- Aiden Markram’s return to form after a couple of early failures.
Sunrisers Probable XI:
David Bedingham,Zak Crawley,Tom Abell,Aiden Markram (c),Tristan Stubbs (wk),Jordan Hermann, Liam Dawson, Simon Harmer,Ottneil Baartman,Richard Gleeson, Marco Jansen
Pretoria Capitals (PC)
The Pretoria Capitals have been unlucky to see two of their five games washed out, but they have shown flashes of brilliance in the games they’ve played. Led by Rilee Rossouw, their top order boasts explosive hitters like Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Will Jacks, while the bowling unit relies on the experience of Migael Pretorius and the all-round skills of James Neesham.
Key Strengths:
- A dynamic batting lineup with Gurbaz and Jacks providing quick starts.
- Dependable all-round options in Neesham and Muthusamy.
Pretoria Capitals Probable XI:
Will Jacks, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Will Smeed, Kyle Verreynne (wk),Rilee Rossouw’s (c),James Neesham,Marques Ackerman,Senuran Muthusamy,Migael Pretorius,Eathan Bosch,Tiaan van Vuuren
Key Players to Watch
- Aiden Markram (SEC)
The Sunrisers’ skipper has shown signs of returning to his fluent best. After scoring an unbeaten 31 off 20 balls in his last game, Markram will look to extend his team’s winning run with another impactful performance.
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz (PC)
Known for his explosive starts, Gurbaz could be the game-changer at the top of the order. His ability to clear the boundaries effortlessly will be crucial for the Capitals.
- Richard Gleeson (SEC)
Gleeson has been in red-hot form with the ball, picking up six wickets in the last three games. His ability to bowl in the death overs and strike at crucial moments makes him a key weapon for the Sunrisers.
- James Neesham (PC)
With his all-round abilities, Neesham can contribute in both departments. His medium-pace variations will be vital on this pitch, while his batting could provide much-needed fireworks in the death overs.
Head-to-Head Record
- Matches Played: 6
- Sunrisers Eastern Cape Wins: 2
- Pretoria Capitals Wins: 4
- No Result: 0
- First Match Played: January 12, 2023
- Most Recent Match: January 14, 2025
Conclusion
As the Sunrisers Eastern Cape and Pretoria Capitals prepare to face off, both teams will aim to secure vital points and momentum as the tournament progresses. The Sunrisers will look to capitalize on their winning streak, while the Capitals will aim to put their washed-out games behind them and get back to winning ways.
To add to the excitement, fans can elevate their experience by joining Vegas11, a premier fantasy sports platform where you can showcase your cricketing expertise and win big. Cricket enthusiast Arjun also encourages fans to tune in to this clash, calling it one of the most anticipated matches of the tournament. Don’t miss out—join the action on Vegas11 and watch the drama unfold at St George’s Park!
