The Dragons were one of two sides to collect bonus-point victories on the opening day, with the Titans also making a winning start against Western Province.

For the Dragons, however, the foundations for victory were laid with a superb opening spell with the ball.

After winning the toss and opting to field, Wihan Lubbe needed just one delivery to make an impact, removing Muhammad Manack with the first ball of the match and of the competition.

Daryn Dupavillon - CSA

He struck again two balls later when Sibonelo Makhanya followed Manack back to the pavilion, leaving the Warriors in serious trouble at 0/2.

Jordan Hermann and Warriors captain Matthew de Villiers steadied the ship, but the Dragons continued to apply pressure. Daryn Dupavillon bowled De Villiers for 10 before Lubbe returned to claim his third wicket, with Hermann departing for 20.

Patrick Kruger fought back with an unbeaten 38, while JP King added 30, but the Warriors could only manage 126/6 from their 20 overs.

The Dragons' chase got off to a slightly shaky start when Lubbe was trapped leg before wicket by Beuran Hendricks for nine.

Captain Rubin Hermann, whose brother Jordan Hermann was playing for the Warriors, then took charge. With wickets falling around him, Hermann produced the innings of the match, combining patience with some clean hitting to keep the Dragons firmly in control.

He brought up an unbeaten 55, with Lesiba Ngoepe providing valuable support on 23 not out as the Dragons raced to 127/3 in just 15.3 overs.

The seven-wicket victory also secured the Dragons a bonus point and sent them straight to the top of Pool B after the opening round.

Jordan Hermann - Cricinfo

While the Dragons enjoyed a comfortable afternoon, the Titans also made a winning start in the second match at SuperSport Park.

The Titans restricted the Western Province Cobras to 186/4 before chasing down their target with five wickets in hand.

Edward Moore and Joshua van Heerden provided the Cobras with the platform, scoring 62 and 64 respectively, but the Titans' response was led by Sinethemba Qeshile and Leus du Plooy.

The pair added 121 for the opening wicket, with Du Plooy smashing 77 before departing. Qeshile followed for 59, while Eathan Bosch's unbeaten 22 ensured the Titans completed the chase with plenty to spare.

Both the Dragons and Titans now have five points at the top of their respective pools after the opening day's action.

The Dragons will be encouraged by the all-round nature of their performance, with Lubbe leading the way with the ball and Hermann calmly steering them home with the bat.

The inaugural Pro20 Cup continues on Saturday when the Northern Cape Heat host Eastern Cape Iinyathi at Kimberley Oval with play starting at 13:00.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport