In Baartman's absence, Dupavillon and Bosch have thrived, helping Dolphins into T20 Challenge final

• Published date: 27 April 2024
• Author: Stuart Hess
• Publication title: TimesLIVE (Johannesburg, South Africa)

Baartman, one of the best "death" bowlers in the country, was quietly called up by IPL franchise the Delhi Capitals, ostensibly as a nonplaying squad member, two weeks ago

While initially seen as a blow, given Baartman's consistency, it has created room for Daryn Dupavillon and Eathan Bosch.

That duo delivered explosive performances, particularly in the final roundrobin match of the competition, with Dupavillon claiming 5/20, the best return in this season's tournament, against the Warriors at St George's Park.

Bosch, who's been spending a lot of time on Durban's golf courses, took 2/18 in four overs to secure a win that ensured a home semifinal.

The Dolphins used that significant advantage on Thursday night to qualify for the final, beating the Warriors, who'd started the competition with eight wins in a row, by seven wickets.

Bosch and Dupavillon each picked up a wicket in the semi with Bosch conceding only 14 runs in his four overs.

The Dolphins have found excellent form in the past few weeks, with Thursday night's triumph their sixth in a row.

Whereas the Warriors had been heavily reliant on Matthew Breetzke, the tournament's leading scorer, for most of their runs, the Dolphins have shared the load, particularly after Bryce Parsons' injury picked up at the Wanderers earlier this month.

The veteran JJ Smuts has risen to the fore with Jason Smith while Khaya Zondo's 49 was a crucial contribution in the run chase on Thursday night.

That trio are among six players who have scored more than 200 runs for the Dolphins in the T20 Challenge this season and their...