The Capitals reached the final for only the second time in the competition’s history after stunning the much-fancied two-time champions, the Sunrisers Eastern Cape, with a seven-wicket triumph in Qualifier 1 at Kingsmead, Durban, on Wednesday night.

Their opponents in the final will be decided on Friday night, following Qualifier 2 between the Sunrisers and Paarl Royals at the Wanderers in Johannesburg. The winner jets off to Cape Town, while the losing side heads home.

Sherfane Rutherford. Photo: Cricinfo

With a slow start to the tournament and a less star-studded line-up, the Capitals have been the surprise package of the SA20, finishing second on the log and booking their maiden final appearance.

North West Dragons captain and Capitals all-rounder Wihan Lubbe told OFM Sport that reaching the final was a monumental achievement for the team.

“Yeah, obviously, anytime you get into a final, it’s a pretty big thing,” said Lubbe.

“But the magnitude of the SA20 and getting into the position we’re in now is just amazing. For the team to have come back the way we have, finding ways to win games from tricky positions, is something special, and we’re definitely not taking it for granted.”

Lubbe added that there is no preference over who they face in the final – it’s all about focusing on themselves and continuing to do what has worked so far.

“We’re looking forward to a tough, competitive game against whoever it is,” he said.

Connor Esterhuizen. Photo: Cricinfo

“Both the Royals and the Sunrisers have played some excellent cricket throughout the tournament. The Royals brought in Rovman Powell for David Miller, and he’ll add a lot of experience to their middle order, so it’s going to be exciting.”

The former Protea said playing a final in the shadow of Table Mountain is an unforgettable experience, and the Capitals are determined to leave no stone unturned in their quest for glory.

“More than who we play, it’s about focusing on what we’ve done well in the last few games,” Lubbe added.

Dewald Brevis. Photo: Cricinfo

“The guys have found some rhythm, and some of the younger local players have really stepped up. 

“It’s exciting, and we’re definitely keen to play in front of a packed Newlands on Sunday. It’s always a special place, even more so for a final. Hopefully, we can lift the trophy on Sunday evening.”

Qualifier 2 between the Paarl Royals and Sunrisers Eastern Cape at the Bullring gets underway at 17:30 on Friday, while Sunday’s final at the iconic Newlands is scheduled for a 15:30 start.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cvs