The game was originally scheduled for Wednesday but has been postponed, giving the Knights a few extra days of rest ahead of this crucial encounter. 

Currently sitting second on the log, and are within striking distance of Boland, who had to shared points with the Lions after their match at the Wanderers in Johannesburg was washed out. A bonus-point victory on Friday will see the Knights move to the top of the log, but their primary focus is securing the four points needed to just about guarantee a playoff spot. 

Knights coach JP Triegaardt told OFM Sport that Quinton Friend’s Dolphins will not be an easy challenge.

“Firstly, I think the game we played against the Lions was one of those matches where a lot of things came together, both individually and as a team, in terms of how we want to play,” said Triegaardt. “There is a lot of belief in the camp at the moment. Going to Durban this weekend is going to be a massive game for us.

“We’re taking it one game at a time – the Dolphins are a really good side, especially at home. They understand their conditions well, and over the years, they’ve beaten many teams that have come here.

Former Knights fast bowler, Quinton Friend. Photo: Morgan Piek

“That said, we are confident in our approach against them. If we stick to what has been working for us and execute our game plan effectively, I believe we will be on the right side of the result again.”

On Sunday, the Knights will face the Titans in Bloemfontein, and a win against the Dolphins will go a long way in securing a playoff spot for the Free State side. However, at least four points will need to be secured in Durban.

Play at Kingsmead is scheduled to get underway at 13:00 on Friday.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek mvh