The 20-year-old all-rounder Ross Boast is back from writing his exams in Stellenbosch and is available for selection in the final. Earlier in the competition, Boast stole the show against the Limpopo Impalas by taking 5/12 on debut, and in the following game against the Iinyathi in East London, he returned figures of 2/14.

The Knights are, however, without the services of two senior statesmen. Rilee Rossouw has headed abroad, while captain Dane Piedt is doubtful due to a shoulder injury.

Knights veteran Patrick Botha told OFM Sport that Boast and the other youngsters bring a massive amount of energy to the side.

“We’ve got quite a few youngsters in the team – Boasty has been really good for us, and Reuben du Toit has come in with some nice little bowling spells.

“Reuben Marais is in the squad as well – he’s done well in the four-day stuff and batted nicely in the one T20 that he played. Having the youngsters in the squad is really good, and the energy they bring is excellent.”

It has been a while since the Knights managed to clinch a title. Two seasons ago they did reach two finals, but just weren’t able to get over the line. Meanwhile, last season, while still in Division 1, they were well on track to reach the One-Day Cup final but crumbled towards the backend of the competition.

Botha added that they have learnt from those past mistakes and will draw on that experience regardless of who they face.

“It’s something to work towards – even last year we worked towards it, but unfortunately we didn’t get over the line,” the highly experienced Botha added.

“We got quite close in the One-Day Cup, and two years ago we were in two finals where we worked really hard but couldn’t finish the job. We’ve been working hard on a few things to make sure we get over the line in this one.”

Botha added that while they’re thrilled to be in the final, it’s important to approach it like any other game, and the key will be to take it ball by ball and adapt as the game unfolds.

Reuben Maree. Photo: Morgan Piek

“I think it’s about taking it ball-by-ball. Gihahn Cloete has batted really well this campaign – he’s had a few good knocks without trying to play big shots, just proper cricket shots, and it’s come off for him,” Botha added.

“Jacques Snyman also had a nice innings in the last game, so he’s kicking into something. Once we get momentum into the innings, it carries through the whole way.”

Meanwhile, on Friday at 13:00, the Iinyathi will host the Badgers at Buffalo Park, with the winner heading to Bloemfontein for the final.

Sunday’s eagerly anticipated final at the Mangaung Oval is scheduled to start at 13:00.

OFM News/Morgan Piek cvs