Dolphins vs Lions Prediction: Who Will Win 28th T20 CSA T20 Challenge Match on 23rd November 2025?
The CSA T20 Challenge 2025 is entering its most crucial phase, and the upcoming clash promises another exciting battle. Fans are eagerly searching for the Dolphins vs Lions prediction, especially with the Dolphins already securing their spot in the knockout stage while the Lions look to salvage pride in their final league match. Scheduled at the Moses Mabhida Stadium, Durban, this fixture holds contrasting meanings for both sides. Dolphins aim to polish their momentum before the semis, whereas Lions want to finish the season on a positive note after a string of mixed performances.
The Dolphins vs Lions prediction hinges largely on form, team balance, and momentum—three areas where the Dolphins currently hold an edge. Their commanding DLS-based victory over the Titans showcased the team’s depth and aggressive intent. Jason Smith’s explosive unbeaten 68 off just 19 balls was a reminder of how dangerous their middle order can be.
The Lions, meanwhile, delivered a gritty performance against Western Province, securing a hard-fought win. Reeza Hendricks, Rassie van der Dussen, and Connor Esterhuizen led from the front with top-quality batting contributions. However, their inconsistency throughout the tournament has cost them big moments.
With both teams carrying different motivations into this contest, the stage is perfectly set for an entertaining encounter. Let us break down the teams, squads, fantasy picks, pitch conditions, and final prediction for Dolphins vs Lions in this decisive Match 28.
- Dolphins have already qualified with 4 wins and look confident.
- Lions’ senior batters—Hendricks, Esterhuizen, and van der Dussen—were outstanding in their previous match.
- A total around 150+ will be competitive in Durban conditions.
- Dolphins bowlers Nortje and Mokoena have been in good rhythm.
Match Details – Dolphins vs Lions, 28th T20
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Match | Dolphins vs Lions, 28th T20 – CSA T20 Challenge 2025 |
| Date | Sunday, 23rd November 2025 |
| Time | 4:30 PM IST |
| Venue | Moses Mabhida Stadium, Durban |
| Live Streaming | Fancode |
Dolphins Team Preview
The Dolphins have been one of the most composed sides of the tournament, winning four out of six matches and sealing their place in the knockout round even before the final league game. Skipper JJ Smuts has managed his players well, ensuring that the batting and bowling units stay in sync at crucial moments.
In the batting department, Jason Smith has emerged as the most dangerous hitter. His outrageous 68* off just 19 balls in the previous match—featuring nine sixes—was one of the most explosive knocks of the season. Supported by Khaya Zondo, Smuts, Tshepang Dithole, and wicketkeeper Gomolemo Phiri, Dolphins’ middle order looks in solid touch. Bryce Parsons and Zondo remain reliable strike rotators who can shift gears quickly when needed.
With the ball, the Dolphins possess a well-rounded attack. South African speedster Anrich Nortje brings pace and intimidation, often picking crucial wickets early. Simelane, Eathan Bosch, and Mokoena form the supporting cast. Mokoena has shown great discipline, bowling tight overs in pressure situations. JJ Smuts and Tristan Luus play important roles in the middle overs with spin and variations, often slowing down the scoring rate.
A major advantage for the Dolphins is their adaptability. They have won games while defending and chasing, and their bench strength provides multiple tactical options. Heading into this contest, their goal will be to maintain rhythm, fine-tune combinations, and secure another commanding victory heading into the semifinals.
Lions Team Preview
The Lions came into this tournament with strong expectations but have lacked consistency. Their campaign has been a mix of narrow wins and tough losses, ultimately placing them out of knockout contention. However, their spirited performance in the previous game, where they beat Western Province, showcased what this team is capable of when their batting unit fires collectively.
Reeza Hendricks was outstanding in the previous match, smashing an unbeaten 68 off 45 balls. His controlled aggression often dictates the tempo of Lions’ innings. Rassie van der Dussen also contributed significantly with a composed 49 off 42 balls. Adding firepower was Connor Esterhuizen, who blasted 47 off 23 balls with four sixes, making him a vital middle-order asset.
In the bowling unit, Evan Jones stepped up with a two-wicket haul and kept things tight during key moments. Zakwan Patel, Swanepoel, and Rafeeq Patel form the seam attack, while Siya Plaatjie offers versatility. Despite having a decent bowling lineup, the Lions have lacked penetration in the death overs—an area that has cost them matches.
Lions’ strength lies in their experience. Their batting lineup is stacked with international-level players capable of running down or defending any total. However, their over-dependence on Hendricks and van der Dussen in pressure chases has been noticeable.
Even though this match holds no qualification significance for Lions, they will be eager to finish the season strong, making them a potentially tricky opponent.
Team Squads
Dolphins Squad:
Smuts (c), Bosch, Parsons, Zondo, Jason Smith, Dithole, Phiri (wk), Simelane, Mokoena, Luus, Nortje
Lions Squad:
Van der Dussen, Hendricks, Esterhuizen, Evan Jones, Seletswane, Van Buuren (c), Makwetu (wk), Swanepoel, Plaatjie, Zakwan Patel, Rafeeq Patel
Probable Playing XIs
Dolphins XI:
Smuts (c), Bosch, Parsons, Zondo, Smith, Dithole, Phiri (wk), Simelane, Mokoena, Luus, Nortje
Lions XI:
Van der Dussen, Hendricks, Esterhuizen, Evan Jones, Seletswane, Van Buuren (c), Makwetu (wk), Swanepoel, Plaatjie, Zakwan Patel, Rafeeq Patel
Dolphins vs Lions Today’s Dream11/Fantasy Prediction
| Role | Players |
|---|---|
| WK | Gomolemo Phiri |
| BAT | Jason Smith (C), van der Dussen, Reeza Hendricks, Esterhuizen |
| AR | JJ Smuts (VC), Evan Jones |
| BOWL | Nortje, Mokoena, Plaatjie, Zakwan Patel |
Jason Smith is the ideal captain choice given his tremendous recent form, especially his 68* off 19 balls. JJ Smuts offers all-round value, making him the perfect vice-captain who can contribute with bat and ball. Hendricks and van der Dussen provide stability in the batting order, while Esterhuizen brings explosive potential.
Evan Jones and Nortje strengthen the bowling department, with Nortje’s pace often producing early breakthroughs. Mokoena and Plaatjie round up the bowling options with economical spells and wicket-taking ability. Phiri remains a strong wicketkeeper pick who can contribute handy runs.
Players to Avoid
Seth Fledermaus – inconsistent batting returns
Rafeeq Patel – economy issues in recent games
Also Check: Get The Best Dream11 Prediction From Cricket Experts
Favourite Team Today – Who Has the Upper Hand?
The Dolphins enter this contest as the stronger and more settled team. Their batting lineup has been firing consistently, with Jason Smith, Zondo, and Smuts providing dependable runs. Their bowling attack appears more balanced than the Lions’, with Nortje and Mokoena in fine rhythm.
The Lions, despite their previous win, have lacked stability across matches. Their batting relies heavily on Hendricks and van der Dussen. If the Dolphins dismiss these early, Lions may struggle to post a competitive total.
With stronger momentum, depth in both departments, and home advantage, the Dolphins hold the edge for this match.
Pitch Report – Moses Mabhida Stadium
The pitch in Durban offers good bounce and carry, especially under daylight conditions. Pacers enjoy movement early on, while batters find it easier as the ball gets older. Spinners may come into play during the middle overs. A score around 150+ is competitive here.
Weather Report
Weather is expected to remain clear with light humidity. No rain interruptions are anticipated during the match.
Broadcast Details
Live on: Fancode
Toss Prediction
Toss Winner: Dolphins
Decision: Bat first
Match Prediction
The Dolphins appear stronger across departments and have superior momentum. Expect them to finish the league stage with another confident victory.
Predicted Winner: Dolphins
Also, once the toss takes place, we might modify the Today Match Prediction as per the playing XIs. Please check this blog after the toss for the updated Prediction.
Disclaimer: Predictions are for entertainment purposes only. We don’t get involved in or promote betting or gambling. Also, We strongly discourage behaviors of participating in illegal activities related to cricket. Our experts try to be as correct as possible, but we do not guarantee 100% correctness.
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