Border vs Mpumalanga Rhinos Prediction: Who Will Win 3rd T20 CSA Knockout Competition Match on 26th October 2025?
The Border vs Mpumalanga Rhinos prediction for the 3rd T20 of the CSA Knockout Competition 2025 promises a fiercely competitive encounter between two sides looking to make a strong start to their campaign. The match will be played on Sunday, 26th October 2025, at Buffalo Park, East London. Both teams endured disappointing runs last season — Border failed to register a single win in six matches, while Mpumalanga Rhinos also fell short of qualifying for the knockout stages. With both teams boasting improved line-ups this year, this clash could set the tone for their tournament.
Border will rely on the firepower of Marco Marais, who was their top scorer last season with 276 runs at a healthy strike rate. On the other hand, Mpumalanga Rhinos will look to their dynamic pair of Jurie Snyman and Gareth Dukes, who were instrumental in their previous campaign. While Border are slightly ahead in terms of batting depth, Mpumalanga’s bowling attack looks more balanced, making this contest intriguing.
This Border vs Mpumalanga Rhinos match prediction takes into account current form, squad strength, and head-to-head record — with Mpumalanga winning two of their last three meetings against Border. However, playing at home gives Border a much-needed advantage as they aim to start their CSA T20 Knockout campaign on a positive note.
Match Details
| Match | Border vs Mpumalanga Rhinos, 3rd T20, CSA Knockout Competition 2025 |
|---|---|
| Date | Sunday, October 26, 2025 |
| Time | 4:00 PM (Local) |
| Venue | Buffalo Park, East London |
| Live Streaming | Fancode |
Border Team Preview
Border had a disappointing 2024 campaign in the CSA T20 Knockout Competition, finishing at the bottom of their group without a single victory. However, this year brings new hope and renewed determination to reverse that trend. Under the leadership of Mncedisi Malika, the team appears more balanced and prepared to challenge stronger sides.
In the batting department, Marco Marais continues to be the pillar for Border. He was the side’s leading run-getter last season with 276 runs at an impressive strike rate of 133.98. His aggressive approach at the top of the order often gives Border a solid start. Supporting him will be Christopher Gleaves and Jerome Bossr, both of whom have shown the ability to accelerate in the middle overs. Skipper Mncedisi Malika, who also keeps wickets, will be key in guiding the younger players.
The bowling lineup is spearheaded by Nico Van Zyl, who picked up 10 wickets in the previous season at an economy rate of 5.39. His discipline with the new ball makes him a crucial weapon in the powerplay. Avabongo Tongo and Matthew Fourie will handle the supporting roles, while Chad Classen is expected to provide variety in the death overs.
Playing at Buffalo Park, where conditions often favor seamers early on before easing for batters, Border will look to exploit the home advantage. Their combination of experienced campaigners and promising young talent makes them a team to watch in this edition.
Mpumalanga Rhinos Team Preview
Mpumalanga Rhinos showed glimpses of potential in the previous CSA T20 Knockout Competition but lacked the consistency required to qualify for the knockout stages. Led by Muhammad Mayet, the team’s focus this season will be on maintaining momentum throughout the group phase.
The batting unit revolves around Jurie Snyman, who was outstanding last year with 195 runs in five innings at a strike rate of 133.56. His ability to attack from the outset and anchor innings makes him indispensable. Benjamin van Niekerk and Nonelela Yikha provide stability in the middle order, while Muhammad Mayet himself can play the role of a finisher.
In the bowling department, Gareth Dukes remains the leader of the attack. He claimed 9 wickets in six outings last season, combining pace with accuracy. His economy rate of 7.85 in T20 cricket is commendable, and he will be backed by Jon Hinrichsen and Junior Makua, both capable of generating swing and bounce. Themba Mapua adds depth with his clever variations.
Despite losing two of their last three encounters against Border, Mpumalanga’s bowling strength could prove vital. However, their over-reliance on a few key players has been a recurring issue. To win, they’ll need collective performances and consistency across departments.
Probable Playing XI
Border:
Mncedisi Malika (C & WK), Marco Marais, Nathan Roux, Christopher Gleaves, Jerome Bossr, Robin Peterson, Jade de Klerk, Avabongo Tongo, Nico Van Zyl, Matthew Fourie, Chad Classen.
Mpumalanga Rhinos:
Muhammad Mayet (C), Zakir Kathrada (WK), Karabo Mogotsi, Nonelela Yikha, Jurie Snyman, Benjamin van Niekerk, Gareth Dukes, Hermann Rolfes, Jon Hinrichsen, Junior Makua, Themba Mapua.
Border vs Mpumalanga Rhinos Today’s Dream11/Fantasy Prediction
| Role | Player |
|---|---|
| WK | Mncedisi Malika |
| Batters | Marco Marais, Jurie Snyman, Christopher Gleaves, Benjamin van Niekerk |
| All-Rounders | Muhammad Mayet, Gareth Dukes |
| Bowlers | Nico Van Zyl, Matthew Fourie, Jon Hinrichsen, Junior Makua |
Captain: Marco Marais
Vice-Captain: Jurie Snyman
Players to Avoid: Nathan Roux and Karabo Mogotsi – both have been inconsistent in the recent domestic circuit and may not contribute enough fantasy points.
Fantasy Insight:
Marco Marais is the best captaincy pick thanks to his explosive T20 record, while Jurie Snyman’s consistency and ability to play long innings make him a smart vice-captain choice.
Also Check: Get The Best Dream11 Prediction From Cricket Experts
Favourite Team in Today’s Match
Border enter this clash as slight favorites given their home advantage and balanced squad. The presence of experienced players like Marco Marais and Nico Van Zyl adds stability to both batting and bowling departments. Their lineup is well-equipped to handle pressure situations, and playing at Buffalo Park – their home ground – gives them added confidence.
Mpumalanga Rhinos, while capable of causing an upset, rely heavily on a few individuals like Jurie Snyman and Gareth Dukes. In contrast, Border have more depth across departments and better familiarity with local conditions. If Border’s top order fires and their bowlers maintain discipline, they should secure a comfortable win in this fixture.
Pitch Report
Buffalo Park offers good assistance to both batters and bowlers. The pitch generally stays true with even bounce, allowing shot-making, but seamers might get early movement. Spinners could come into play as the game progresses. A score around 160–170 will be competitive.
Weather Report
The weather in East London is expected to be clear with minimal chances of rain. Temperatures will hover around 23°C, ensuring perfect conditions for a full 20-over contest.
Broadcast Details
- Live Streaming: Fancode (India)
- TV Broadcast: Not available in India
Toss Prediction
Toss Winner: Border
They might elect to bat first to post a strong total and put scoreboard pressure on Mpumalanga.
Match Prediction
- If Border Bat First: 160+
- If Mpumalanga Rhinos Bat First: 154+
- Winning Chances: Border 58% | Mpumalanga Rhinos 42%
Our Winner: Border will win
Border’s superior batting depth, experienced bowling unit, and home advantage make them the more likely victors in the CSA T20 Knockout Competition 2025 – Border vs Mpumalanga Rhinos match.
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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