Dominant Dolphins cruise past champions

Half centuries by Jon-Jon Smuts, Tshepang Dithole the impressive Hanu Viljoen helped pave the way for Hollywoodbets Dolphins to continue their One-Day Cup improvement with a mighty 194-run win over World Sports Betting Western Province in Cape Town on Friday.

The visitors also produced a fine bowling display that was led by Prenelan Subrayen as 317/6 played 123 all out.

The spinner claimed 3/27 and was supported expertly by Tristan Luus (3/36), Ottniel Baartman (2/20) as the defending champions were sent tumbling in just 26.5 overs at World Sports Betting Newlands to stay bottom of the table with a 1-4 (win-loss) record.

The Dolphins, meanwhile, climbed to fourth now just three points off leaders Goldrush Boland.

And they were fully deserved winners of their second win of the campaign after an excellent performance that was set up by their batters.

Veteran Smuts struck 61 off 61 balls (8x4) and Dithole hit 67 off 82 balls (10x4) during an opening partnership of 129. That was followed by 48 from Bryce Parsons, before Viljoen (74 off 63 balls, 8x4) and Eathan Bosch (40* off 26 balls) provided the finishing touches to lift the Durban side beyond 300.

In contrast, WP were under the pump from the get-go after both openers fell for ducks.

Their struggles continued right the way through after they slipped to 22/3, though they were rescued from complete annihilation by Proteas batter David Bedingham (45), one of just two batters to hit double figures.

They then slipped from 62/3 to 78/8 in a matter of 6.4 overs, with Kyle Simmonds (30) ensuring they at least crossed 100, before being last man out in a forgettable loss.