The Dragons suffered a second shock defeat to a Division 2 team on Saturday, going down by six wickets to the Garden Route Badgers in what was their first game of the season.

In a twist of irony, it was former North West batter Janneman Malan who proved to be the thorn in the Dragons’ side, with the former Proteas batter scoring an unbeaten 67.

Craig Alexander. Photo: Morgan Piek

As was the case in their recent surprise defeat to the Eastern Cape Iinyathi in East London, the Dragons’ fielding let them down. In that match, a dropped catch proved costly, while against the Badgers, they put down four catches.

If there is one cricketing adage that continues to ring true, it is that catches win matches. Fielding has consequently been a major focus for the Dragons as they prepare for a tricky encounter against the Dolphins, who sit at the top of Pool B with three wins from four matches.

Dragons coach Craig Alexander, who played as a seamer for the Dolphins during his career, told OFM Sport that there is no sense of panic in the camp. Instead, the focus is on improving their performance in the field and bringing all aspects of their game together to deliver a more complete performance.

“Every game is important for us. Whether it’s the first or the seventh game doesn’t really matter,” said Alexander.

“The important thing is to build some momentum in the competition, and we haven’t quite found that yet. We’ve been inconsistent in several aspects of our game, which is disappointing, but we’re still a good team.

“That doesn’t take away from what we’ve achieved over the past few years or the momentum we’ve built within the changing room and the squad. This season is just a small stumbling block that we need to overcome.”

Dragons captain Wihan Lubbe and Janneman Malan, when he still played for the team from Potchefstroom. Photo: CSA

Although the Dragons have suffered two defeats in the competition, Alexander believes Tuesday’s encounter presents an important opportunity to get their campaign back on track. However, he stressed that their fielding must improve, with dropped catches proving costly against both the Iinyathi and the Badgers.

“We’re only four games into the T20 competition, with two wins and two losses behind us,” added Alexander.

“I’m really looking forward to seeing the guys put in a good performance against the Dolphins this evening. They’re top of the table, so it’s going to be a tough game. However, if we bring our A-game and stick to our processes, as we always talk about, everyone knows what we’re capable of.

“For me, this is a must-win game, and I’m looking forward to seeing what the guys can produce. Our fielding has been particularly disappointing. Against the Iinyathi, we dropped a catch that cost us 41 runs and ultimately the game. Against the Badgers, we dropped four catches that cost us 51 runs, which also proved decisive.

“Cricket isn’t just about batting and bowling. Fielding is a massive part of the game, and as the old saying goes, catches win matches.

“Hopefully, we can put together a complete performance with the bat, ball, and in the field. If we can do that, I’m confident we can come out on top.”

Tuesday’s Pro20 Cup clash between the Dragons and Quinton Friend’s Dolphins at JB Marks Oval is scheduled to get underway at 18:00.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cvs