Lions crowned CSA T20 Challenge champions

The DP World Lions have added another trophy to their 2023/24 cabinet after Reeza Hendricks (73*) and Wiaan Mulder (55*) led the Johannesburg-based side to a comfortable seven-wicket victory over Hollywoodbets Dolphins in the Cricket South Africa (CSA) T20 Challenge final at the Bullring.


Chasing 166 runs, Hendricks anchored the innings after the early dismissals of Ryan Rickelton (18), Rassie van der Dussen (6), and Temba Bavuma (7), bringing Mulder to the crease.

The duo orchestrated an elegant 85-run partnership, guiding the reigning CSA 4-Day Series champions to their second title this season.

Earlier, Dolphins found themselves batting first in the Lions’ den. A miscommunication led to the run-out of Bryce Parsons for just three runs, while Jon Jon Smuts was caught off the bowling of skipper Bjorn Fortuin for seven.

Despite the early setbacks, opener Khaya Zondo (37) and Marques Ackerman (17) attempted to steady the ship. However, their efforts were short-lived as Nqaba Peter (1/42) trapped Zondo lbw and Evan Jones had Ackerman caught by Mulder at mid-on.

Lutho Sipamla then clean-bowled Andile Phehlukwayo before Fortuin (2/24) returned to dismiss Tshepang Dithole, both for just 10 runs each.


It was Jason Smith’s gritty half-century that revitalized the Dolphins’ innings, forming a crucial 57-run partnership with Eathan Bosch (17) to propel the Durban-based side to a competitive total of 165/8.


Nevertheless, the Lions, led by Hendricks and Mulder, exhibited their batting prowess to clinch the title in style, delighting their fans and adding another chapter to their storied legacy.