In a dazzling display of cricketing brilliance, MI Cape Town secured their first-ever SA20 title with a commanding 76-run victory over the Sunrisers Eastern Cape in Johannesburg. Spearheaded by the exceptional Kagiso Rabada, Cape Town put an exclamation mark on their tournament, rising from the bottom in the previous two editions to champions in 2025.
Rabada Leads the Charge
Rabada, South Africa’s premier fast bowler, was the standout performer of the night, delivering figures of 4-25. He set the tone early, striking in his first over to put the Sunrisers under pressure. With relentless pace and precision, Rabada returned later in the innings to dismantle the lower order, ensuring there was no comeback for the two-time champions.
Speaking after the match, Rabada said, “I love playing in South Africa, and this league means a lot, especially to the younger players coming through. The fans are loving the entertainment, and the players are giving them that entertainment.”
Trent Boult, Rabada’s bowling partner, was equally impressive, claiming 2-9 in a clinical spell that choked the Sunrisers’ chase.
Esterhuizen and Brevis Set the Foundation
Earlier in the match, MI Cape Town set a formidable target of 181-8, with notable contributions from Connor Esterhuizen (39 off 26 balls) and the explosive Dewald Brevis (38 off 18). Brevis, known for his fearless hitting, provided early fireworks, while Esterhuizen anchored the innings during the middle overs.
Despite some resistance from former England bowler Richard Gleeson, who picked up 2-22, and Liam Dawson, who claimed 2-40, Cape Town’s depth in batting ensured they posted a challenging total.
Sunrisers Falter in Chase
Chasing 182 for victory, the Sunrisers Eastern Cape struggled to find momentum. Tom Abell’s 30 off 25 balls provided some resistance, but the rest of the batting lineup failed to cope with Cape Town’s relentless bowling attack.
Rabada’s fiery opening spell and Boult’s pinpoint accuracy left the Sunrisers reeling, and they were eventually bowled out for a meager 105 in 18.4 overs.
Captain Rashid Khan Reflects on Victory
MI Cape Town captain Rashid Khan was elated after the win, describing the turnaround from bottom-place finishes in the last two editions to champions this year as “unbelievable.” He said, “It feels amazing and unbelievable, especially after being at the bottom of the table in the last two years. So happy. I have no words.”
A New Chapter for MI Cape Town
This victory is a milestone for MI Cape Town, who are owned by the multi-billionaire Ambani family, the wealthiest in India. The Ambanis also own five-time IPL champions Mumbai Indians, the women’s Mumbai Indians team in the WPL, and have recently expanded their global cricket portfolio with a 49% stake in the Oval Invincibles in The Hundred.
The team’s rise from the depths of the table to becoming SA20 champions showcases their investment in talent and commitment to building a winning culture.
What’s Next?
With the SA20 title now in their trophy cabinet, MI Cape Town will look to build on this success in future editions. For fans and players alike, this season marked a turning point in the franchise’s history, fueled by Rabada’s heroics, Brevis’s brilliance, and the unwavering leadership of Rashid Khan.
As the dust settles on the SA20 final, one thing is certain: MI Cape Town are here to stay, and their journey from underdogs to champions will be remembered for years to come.
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