With Playoffs Secured, WSB WP Men Eye Momentum in Lions Clash at Newlands

November 2025

NEWLANDS – Having secured a CSA T20 Challenge playoff berth with impressive victories over the Momentum Multiply Titans, Mothee Ram Tuskers and the Hollywoodbets Dolphins, the World Sports Betting Western Province Men are heading into their final group clash against the DP World Lions with confidence and momentum on their side.

The Boys in Blue will host the Lions at WSB Newlands on Friday, with the match scheduled to begin at 12h00.

WPCA CEO Corrie van Zyl praised the team’s character and development throughout the competition. “What’s been most impressive is how this group has grown together under pressure,” van Zyl said. “They’ve shown tremendous character to secure playoff cricket for our fans, and the brand of cricket they’re playing embodies the fighting spirit of Western Province. This is exactly the momentum we want heading into the business end of the tournament.”

Nineteen-year-old fast bowler Raeeq Daniels, a standout in his debut season, says the mood within the squad has been extremely good following the recent run of vital wins.

“The mood in the camp has been extremely good after winning two back to back games. The group is growing in confidence with each game, and the boys are starting to feel the reward of all their hard work. There’s been a nice energy around the camp, but we also know there’s still a lot to play for, so we’re staying level-headed going into Friday.”

With Rory Kleinveldt’s side riding high on confidence; playing in front of the Newlands Faithful will provide an added boost as the team gears up for the qualifiers.

Daniels says the team’s clarity has been one of the biggest positives of the competition. He believes maintaining that discipline will be key to carrying momentum into the final group fixture and beyond.

“I think our clarity has been the biggest positive for the group,” he explained. “Everyone knows their role, and we’ve been executing our plans well, whether it’s with bat or ball. For me personally, it’s just about sticking to my strengths, keeping things simple, and staying calm under pressure. If we keep the same discipline and intensity, we can carry this form into the next game.”

Looking ahead to the challenge posed by the Lions, Daniels acknowledges the strength of the opposition but believes the team is well prepared.

“The Lions are a quality side. They play an aggressive brand of cricket, and nothing comes easy when facing them, so we’re expecting a proper contest.”

When asked how he looks to counter the Lions’ aggression, Daniels was clear: “My preparation doesn’t really change – it’s about hitting my best lengths, being consistent, and backing our plans to compete with anyone”.

The team is focused on improving in key areas for a more complete performance. “We’ve been good in patches, but we want to be more complete across all three disciplines,“ Daniels acknowledged. “Tightening up small moments, nailing our death overs, being sharper in the field – those little details make a big difference in T20 cricket, especially against strong teams.”

Daniels says fans can look forward to a high-energy performance from the home side.

“Fans can expect a lot of energy. Playing at Newlands is special, and we always want to put on a performance the supporters can be proud of. We want to play positive, fearless cricket and bring that fighting spirit Western Province is known for. Hopefully we can continue the momentum and give them something to shout about.”

WSB Western Province Squad

Joshua van Heerden, Abdallah Bayoumy, Raeeq Daniels, Dane Paterson, Kyle Simmonds, Juan James, Mbulelo Dube, Mthiwekhaya Nabe, Edward Moore, Daniel Smith (c), George Linde, Josh Breed, Valentine Kitime, Jiveshan Pillay, Litha Kraai.