Paarl Royals fall short as Nortje guides Kavya Maran’s Team to bonus-point victory in SA20 2025-26
New Delhi: Sunrisers made a spectacular start to SA20 Season 4 at Boland Park, crushing Paarl Royals for just 49 runs. With a massive 137-run victory, the two-time champions also secured a bonus point in their first opening match of the season.
Jordan Hermann Powers Sunrisers to a Strong Total
Jordan Hermann led the way with an unbeaten 62 off 28 balls, including 5 fours and 4 sixes, taking Sunrisers to 186/4. Quinton de Kock (42 off 24) and Jonny Bairstow (31 off 33) gave the perfect start, while Matthew Breetzke (31) and Hermann added a 73-run fourth-wicket partnership. Hermann finished the innings with 22 runs off the final over by Delano Potgieter.
Nortje Shines with the Ball, Royals Struggle
The Royals never recovered as Sunrisers’ pacers dominated. Marco Jansen (1/15), Adam Milne (2/17), and Anrich Nortje (4/13) wreaked havoc in the Powerplay. Nortje’s fiery comeback after missing two seasons due to injury was the highlight, leaving Royals reeling at 30/4.
Royals Must Regroup Ahead of Rematch
Paarl Royals will need to bounce back quickly ahead of their New Year’s Eve rematch against Sunrisers at St George’s Park. The first match sets the tone for an exciting SA20 season, and fans are eagerly waiting for the next showdown. Today, December 28, Durban’s Super Giants take on MI Cape Town at 7 PM, live on JioHotstar and Star Sports Network.
Story Highlights
• Sunrisers bowled Royals out for just 49 runs.
• Jordan Hermann scored an unbeaten 62 to anchor the innings.
• Anrich Nortje took 4 wickets to dismantle Royals’ batting.
• Sunrisers claimed a bonus-point win in their opening match.