The SA20 caravan rolls into the highveld as the Pretoria Capitals (PC) host Durban's Super Giants (DSG) at SuperSport Park. Both teams have had a mixed bag of results recently, with PC coming off a win but DSG stumbling in their last two outings. For fantasy fans, Centurion is usually a run fest, but the recent stats suggest the bowlers specifically the quicks are having a say. Let's break down the data to help you crack the Winning Zone.
Weather Report: Centurion Forecast
It is summer in South Africa, and Centurion in January can be tricky. Expect warm conditions with temperatures around 28°C at the start of play. However, the highveld is famous for late afternoon thunderstorms. There is a moderate chance of rain interruption, so keep an eye on the toss and DLS possibilities. The humidity will hover around 60%, and a gentle breeze might help the swing bowlers early on.
Pitch Report: SuperSport Park
SuperSport Park is known for its true bounce and fast outfield, usually a paradise for batters. However, the recent numbers tell a specific story for fantasy managers:
- Pace is King: In the last 5 matches, pacers have snapped up 37 wickets, while spinners have only managed 12. The extra bounce here helps the seamers significantly.
- Average Score: The average first innings score is 159. It's not the 200+ highway we sometimes see, suggesting a balance between bat and ball.
- Strategy: Load your fantasy contests with hit the-deck pacers and top order batters who enjoy the ball coming onto the bat.
Team Analysis: Pretoria Capitals (PC)
PC finally broke a losing streak with a win in their last game. Their strength currently lies in their middle order and all rounders.
- Sherfane Rutherford is in beast mode. With a series average of 143 points and 72 runs recently, plus chipping in with wickets, he is a must have.
- Will Smeed has found form with 91 runs in the series and a strike rate that boosts fantasy points.
- Bryce Parsons is the dark horse. He is batting in the top order and bowling left arm spin, giving him dual avenues for points.
- Bowling: Tymal Mills and Lungi Ngidi will be crucial on this deck. Mills operates at the death, which is prime time for fantasy points.
Team Analysis: Durban's Super Giants (DSG)
DSG has lost two in a row and will be desperate to bounce back. They have a star studded lineup but need to click as a unit.
- Aiden Markram is the reliable anchor. He contributes with both bat and ball (off spin), making him a safe pick for small leagues.
- Devon Conway and Jos Buttler form a scary top order. Conway has 87 runs in the series and looks solid.
- Heinrich Klaasen is always a threat, though his recent form has been middling. If he gets going at Centurion, he can clear the boundaries easily.
- Bowling: Eathan Bosch is the pacer to watch. He hits the deck hard, which suits this venue perfectly.
Key Players for Your Fantasy Team
Wicket Keepers:
- Shai Hope: Consistent and safe behind the stumps.
- Jos Buttler: High ceiling, though slightly risky given recent form.
Batters:
- Sherfane Rutherford: The form player of the tournament for PC.
- Devon Conway: Reliable opener for DSG.
- Will Smeed: Aggressive intent at the top.
All Rounders:
- Bryce Parsons: High selection % for a reason; contributes everywhere.
- Aiden Markram: A captaincy favorite due to his all round value.
- Wihan Lubbe: A solid differential pick.
Bowlers:
- Tymal Mills: Death over specialist.
- Eathan Bosch: Suited for Centurion conditions.
- Noor Ahmad: Quality wrist spin, though pace is preferred here.
Captaincy & Vice Captaincy Picks
- Safe Options: Sherfane Rutherford, Aiden Markram
- High Risk/High Reward: Bryce Parsons, Devon Conway
- Differential: Will Smeed (low ownership as C/VC but high potential)
Final Fantasy Strategy
Given the ground stats, a 6-5 combination favoring the team bowling first might be wise. Don't ignore the pacers fill at least 3-4 spots with fast bowlers who bowl in the death overs. Good luck with your contests!