KING William’s Town based Pioneers United travelled to East London secured yet another win last weekend in a low-scoring match against Gwabe at the Bunkers Hill Oval.
The visitors won the toss, elected to bat and were bowled for a shameful 78 all out in 25 overs in their Border Cricket Promotional League game.
In reply the hosts struggled to find their feet and were knocked over for just 53 all out in 13 overs.
Pioneers started poorly when opener Vuya Mtini for 10 runs off 21 balls with the score on 13 for 1 after 4.4 overs.
Onele Gqomfo was soon to follow for two off 12 balls with Pioneers standing on 18/2 after 5.5 overs.
Tasleem Safter was clean bowled for four with the score on 19/3 and teammates Lynden Esterhuizen with Damian Dyani scratched around before Dyani became the next victim contributing only four.
His departure was followed by Daryl Fourie who was caught for a single run with the visitors on 31/6 after 11.5 overs.
There was a need to panic after Shandre Butler and Adams only added eight runs before the latter was castles for five off nine balls and the score on 39/7 after 14.2 overs.
Butler was joined by Mark Capka and the pair brought some respectability to the visitors contributing 31 off 63 balls.
Captain Zoyisile Booi and Kazi joined the crease but the latter was trapped LBW which concluded their innings.
With the low target Gwabe was confident they would pull this one out of the fire but were surprised by the visitors bowlers who had other ideas up their sleeves.
They only managed 53 all out with bowlers Lynden Esterhuizen and Capka both picking up five wickets each, giving Pioneers victory by 25 runs.
Pioneers acting club chairperson and secretary Kermit Du Plesssis said he thought his team was dead and buried after such a poor batting performance but never imagined his captain’s ability.
“Booi showed his leadership skills after started his bowling attack differently as the usual order and it paid dividends as the move destroyed the Gwabe batsmen,” Du Plessis said.
“I am over the moon about this win and can only foresee a bright future with my boys.”
Pioneers will host Mdantsane based Black Lion this weekend. Can they keep the momentum? Watch this space!
