Captain Fantastic! Rashid Khan Powers MI Cape Town into First-Ever SA20 2025 Final

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Rashid Khan led MI Cape Town from the front as they stormed into their first-ever SA20 final with a 39-run victory over Paarl Royals in Qualifier 1 at St George’s Park.

After being put in to bat, MI Cape Town posted a strong total of 199/4 in their 20 overs. Ryan Rickelton (44 off 27), Rassie van der Dussen (40 off 32), Dewald Brevis (44 off 30), and Delano Potgieter (32 off 17)** played crucial knocks to set up a challenging target.

While Paarl Royals’ bowlers struggled, Dunith Wellalage (2/23) was the pick of the lot, keeping the scoring rate in check during the middle overs. However, late fireworks from Brevis and Potgieter ensured MI Cape Town finished on a high.

Chasing 200, Paarl Royals had a promising start, smashing 21 runs in the first over off Trent Boult. However, their hopes were dashed as MI Cape Town’s bowling attack struck at regular intervals.

Skipper Rashid Khan took charge, picking up two crucial wickets for 33 runs in his four overs, dismissing Dinesh Karthik and Dunith Wellalage to put his team in firm control.

Kagiso Rabada (2/18), Boult (2/38), and Corbin Bosch (2/34) also played key roles as Paarl Royals were bowled out for 160 in 19.4 overs.

Rashid Khan’s Impact Throughout the Season

Rashid Khan has not only been a key bowler but also an exceptional leader. Under his captaincy, MI Cape Town finished at the top of the points table in the league stage, winning seven out of their 10 matches, with one match washed out due to bad weather.

Individually, Rashid has been one of the tournament’s top performers, currently standing as the seventh-highest wicket-taker with 11 wickets in nine innings. His ability to control the game with both the ball and his captaincy has been a major factor in MI Cape Town’s success.

One Step Away from Glory

With this thumping win, MI Cape Town have sealed their place in the SA20 2025 final, where they will await the winner of Qualifier 2.

Paarl Royals, meanwhile, will get another shot at the final when they face the winner of the Eliminator between Sunrisers Eastern Cape and Joburg Super Kings.

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