Paarl, Jan 28 (UNI) The Paarl Royals scripted history by becoming the first team to complete a flawless five-match home record during the league phase of the Betway SA20 at Boland Park on Tuesday IST.

The Royals achieved a thrilling six-wicket victory over Durban’s Super Giants, eliminating last season’s runners-up from playoff contention. This feat surpasses the previous best home record set by Joburg Super Kings in Season 1, who registered four wins and a washout at the Wanderers.

Young South African talents Luhan-dre Pretorius and Kwena Maphaka were instrumental in maintaining the Royals’ dominance at the top of the table, now with 28 points.
Maphaka, with his tournament-best figures of 2/22, restricted the Super Giants to 143/7. He bowled a peach of a delivery to dismiss Brandon King early and outfoxed Heinrich Klaasen with a slower ball in the death overs.
"I was really itching to put in a good performance for the team. I have practiced the slower ball since I was 12 years old, and I’m glad it worked," Maphaka said post-match.
Pretorius shone with the bat, reclaiming the top run-scorer spot by becoming the first batsman to cross the 300-run mark in Season 3. His 43 off 29 balls (5x4, 1x6) set the tone for the Royals’ successful chase.
Rubin Hermann also made a significant contribution with a composed 59 off 51 balls (4x4, 2x6), displaying innovative shot-making against the spinners. Dayyaan Galiem sealed the victory with a six off the penultimate delivery.
Super Giants’ Marcus Stoinis tried valiantly with an unbeaten 55 off 35 balls (4x4, 2x6), sharing a 53-run stand with Kane Williamson (45 off 36 balls). However, their efforts were insufficient to halt the Royals’ march.
The Royals will be concerned about skipper David Miller, who left the field during the Super Giants’ innings and did not bat. His fitness remains under observation ahead of the playoffs.
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