Ryan Rickelton etched his name in SA20 history with a magnificent second century, steering MI Cape Town to a comprehensive 78-run thrashing of Joburg Super Kings. The 27-year-old’s unbeaten 127 powered a mammoth 267/5, overwhelming the opposition completely.
Rickelton’s masterclass began with elegant drives and escalated into brutal assault. He cleared the ropes six times and found the boundary 14 times, reaching three figures in 53 balls. His composure under pressure was exemplary, rotating strike while punishing loose deliveries. Brevis’ 58 provided perfect support in their 140-run stand.
Joburg Super Kings’ fielding lapses and bowling errors handed MI Cape Town momentum. Captain Faf du Plessis rotated his bowlers frantically, but none troubled the batsmen. The total of 267/5 equals the SA20 record for highest team score.
The chase was dead on arrival. MI Cape Town’s bowlers, spearheaded by Rabada (2/34) and Linde (3/28), suffocated the Kings’ batsmen. Key partnerships failed to materialize, and the required run rate climbed to 14 an over by the 15th. Du Plessis fought hard for his 62, but the lower order collapsed spectacularly.
This result sends a strong message from MI Cape Town’s title aspirations. Rickelton’s consistency – 405 runs at 201 strike rate – makes him undroppable. Joburg Super Kings must address bowling frailties urgently. SA20 excitement builds as playoff race intensifies.