De Villiers and Peters help Warriors slay Dragons

The Dafabet Warriors claimed a hard-fought 11-run victory over NWU North West Dragons after defending a competitive total of 262/8 in their 1-Day Cup encounter on Tuesday.

After being sent in to bat, Warriors were anchored by a superb century from Matthew de Villiers, who struck 113 off 101 balls, including 15 fours and two sixes, to lay the foundation for the innings.

He shared a crucial partnership with Sinethemba Qeshile, who contributed a patient 44 from 80 deliveries.

Patrick Kruger continued his fine form in the middle order, smashing 33 off just 20 balls, including two fours and three sixes, with Jean du Plessis’ 36 runs, helping push the Warriors past the 260-run mark.

The Dragons’ bowling effort was led by Alfred Mothoa, who impressed with figures of 4/44 in his 10 overs to keep the scoring in check during the middle and latter stages.

Onke Nyaku, Migael Pretorius and Caleb Seleka, also chipped in with wickets, while Ruan de Swardt and Wihan Lubbe kept things tight in their spells.

In response, the Dragons fought hard in pursuit of 263 but were bowled out for 251 in 49 overs.

Lubbe top-scored with a steady 80 from 113 balls, while de Swardt added 47 off 50 deliveries to keep the chase alive. However, regular wickets halted their momentum at key moments.

Gideon Peters delivered the decisive blow for the Warriors with an outstanding five-wicket haul, returning figures of 5/48 from his 10 overs.

Kerwin Mungroo supported well with 2/53, while Thomas Kaber picked up 1/36 as the Warriors held their nerve in the closing stages to seal the narrow win.