The win strengthened the Dragons’ grip at the top of the table – their third victory in four games – and was the perfect way to bounce back after their eight-wicket defeat to Western Province at Newlands in Cape Town the previous week. On the final day, the Dragons bowled the Lions out for 163 in their second innings. 

Onke Nyaku took 4/74, while captain Wihan Lubbe chipped in with 2/4. Alfred Mothoa claimed 2/12 in eight overs, and Ruan de Swardt added 2/25 in ten.

Chasing 147 for victory, Lubbe smashed an unbeaten 67 off 46 balls, while Janneman Malan scored 41 as the Dragons reached the target in just 23.2 overs.

Lubbe told OFM Sport that it was a solid all-round team performance and that beating the defending champions at the Bullring made the win even sweeter.

“It's always special beating the Lions at the Wanderers, but to do it in four-day cricket is something else – not many teams come here and actually roll them over,” said the in-form captain.

“We’re very chuffed. If you look at how the game flowed, that partnership between Dian Forrester and Alfred Mothoa was massive for us - it really set up the second innings for both teams.

Wihan Lubbe. Photo: Morgan Piek

“We’re very happy with the result. All the guys have been performing at different stages – it’s not just one player blowing the lights out. That said, our bowling unit has been exceptional, and they’re making my life a lot easier this season.

“Overall, we’re very happy and proud of the win, and it’s great to see so many players contributing to our early success this season.”

The Dragons’ next CSA 4-Day Series match starts on 9 December against the Warriors at the JB Marks Oval in Potchefstroom.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cvs