SA 2025-26: Predicting playing XI for Qualifier 1

Sunrisers Eastern Cape will lock horns with Pretoria Capitals in Qualifier 1 of the SA20 2025-26 on Wednesday, January 21. The high-stakes clash will decide the first finalist of the season, with the loser getting another opportunity in Qualifier 2. Sunrisers Eastern Cape finished at the top of the points table with five wins from 10 matches, while Pretoria Capitals secured second place with an identical win record but a lower net run rate. Here let us take a look at probable playing XI for Qualifier 1 from both teams.

Sunrisers Eastern Cape:

Top Order: Quinton de Kock (WK), Jonny Bairstow, Matthew Breetzke

Quinton de Kock is expected to continue as wicketkeeper, having scored 337 runs in nine innings. He will be partnered by Jonny Bairstow, who has contributed 205 runs in eight innings, and Matthew Breetzke, who scored 201 runs in seven innings.

Middle Order: Jordan Hermann, Tristan Stubbs (Capt), Marco Jansen

The middle order will be led by captain Tristan Stubbs, alongside Jordan Hermann and all-rounder Marco Jansen. Hermann has been consistent with 212 runs in seven innings, while Jansen has chipped in with 76 runs and 10 wickets.

Lower Middle Order: Chris Green, James Coles

In the lower middle order, Chris Green and James Coles provide depth. Green has taken three wickets, while Coles impressed with 89 runs in just two innings along with four wickets.

Bowler: Senuran Muthusamy, Anrich Nortje, Lutho Sipamla

The bowling attack will feature Senuran Muthusamy, Anrich Nortje, and Lutho Sipamla. Nortje has been outstanding with 14 wickets, supported by Muthusamy’s nine wickets.

Pretoria Capitals:

Top Order: Shai Hope (WK), Bryce Parsons, Connor Esterhuizen

Pretoria Capitals will rely on Shai Hope at the top, who has scored 264 runs in nine innings. He is likely to open with Bryce Parsons, while Connor Esterhuizen slots in at number three after scoring 144 runs this season.

Middle Order: Dewald Brevis, Roston Chase, Andre Russell

The middle order includes explosive batter Dewald Brevis, all-rounders Roston Chase, and Andre Russell. Brevis has amassed 194 runs, while Russell provides finishing power despite limited returns so far.

Lower Middle Order: Sherfane Rutherford, Keshav Maharaj (Capt)

In the lower middle order, Sherfane Rutherford has been exceptional with 317 runs and four wickets, supported by captain Keshav Maharaj, who has taken nine wickets.

Bowler: Lizaad Williams, Lungi Ngidi, Gideon Peters

The bowling unit will be spearheaded by Lizaad Williams, Lungi Ngidi, and Gideon Peters, who have collectively formed a reliable pace attack.

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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