Dolphins line up Lions scalp

The Hollywoodbets Dolphins will be eying a second win when they face the DP World Lions in their next 1-Day Cup assignment at the DP World Wanderers Stadium on Wednesday.

One of the changes to the Dolphins squad is the inclusion of left-handed top order batter Eddie Moore on loan from Western Province.

The Dolphins were left frustrated after their previous match was washed out, denying them the opportunity to push for a positive result in the competition. Head coach Quinton Friend acknowledged the disappointment but stressed that the team has already shifted its focus to the challenge ahead.

“It was disappointing that we didn't get a result on Sunday but that is the nature of cricket and you can't control the weather,” Friend said.

Despite the setback, the Dolphins remain clear about what lies ahead as they continue their campaign in the 50 over competition.

“We understand what we need to do for the rest of the competition and the goal is to win every game,” Friend said.

“The team doesn't want to focus too much on the outcomes and concentrate on what needs to be done to beat the Lions on Wednesday.”

The clash against the Lions also comes during a period where the Dolphins squad continues to evolve, with opportunities opening up for younger players due to national call-ups.

Friend highlighted the importance of the franchise’s development structures and the chance for emerging talent to step up at senior level.

“We gave two more debuts on Sunday and it's the nature of cricket when you have players being called up to senior national teams,” he explained.

“It's important that we are showcasing what we have worked on from a pipeline point of view.

“We've put a lot of time and effort into it and it's important that we give these young players the best possible chance to succeed at this level.”

The Dolphins mentor believes there have already been encouraging signs from the newcomers, although he emphasised that growth and improvement remain part of the journey.

“To be honest it's been great to see some guys step up but there is also a lot of hard work ahead for a lot of guys,” Friend added.

“They know this and understand that they are still growing as players and I'm excited to see what these young players can do for us.”

Playing under the lights at the Wanderers is another aspect the Dolphins are relishing, with the Johannesburg venue widely regarded as one of South Africa’s most famous cricket grounds.

“It's always fantastic playing cricket at an iconic stadium like the Wanderers, especially a day and night game; so I think the guys will be excited to go out there and put their best foot forward,” Friend said.

However, Friend is under no illusions about the task awaiting his side against a Lions outfit known for its depth and quality.

“We're going to have to be at our best against the Lions because they've got high quality in their ranks from players to coaches,” he said.

“It's important that we put ourselves in the best possible position to counter the Lions.”

Hollywoodbets Dolphins v DP World Lions Squad

Marques Ackerman (c), Bayanda Majola, Imran Tahir, Aryan Gopalan, Gomolemo Phiri, Khaya Zondo, Slade van Staden, Romashan Pillay, Tristan Luus, Jon-Jon Smuts, Zedan Mohammed, Tshepang Dithole, Eddie Moore.