The ITEC Knights are expecting a dry pitch that will be spin friendly for the Division 2 final of the CSA 4-Day series against the Northern Cap Heat in Kimberley.

It is the hometown of the Knights coach, JP Triegaardt, while players such as Aubrey Swanepoel also know the pitch like the back of their hand.

The Knights have received a major boost for the final with the return of the in-form spinner, Dane Piedt, following the Proteas recent Test against the Black Caps in New Zealand.

Triegaardt told OFM Sport that Piedt will have an important role to play.

“The wicket will be dry and spin will come into play on that time of pitch,” said Triegaardt who hails from Kimberley and is no stranger to the conditions they can expect.

“It's a blessing to have Dane Piedt back - he is an unbelievable bowler. We saw what he did against New Zealand in that second Test against the Black Caps.

“His ability speaks for itself and to have him back for a final is massive. It's also about the consistency and the leadership he brings to the team.”

During round two of the 4-Day series, the Knights beat the heat by 361-runs in Kimberley. In that match Piedt took 3/82 in 26 overs and 3/72 in 30.5 overs.

In addition, the Knights have Aubrey Swanepoel, Jacques Snyman, Isaac Dikgale and Gihahn Cloete who have all played their cricket Kimberley and should have a good understanding of the conditions.

The final at the Diamond Oval will start at 10:00 on Saturday morning.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport