Knights vs Border Prediction: Who Will Win Qualifier 1 T20 CSA Knockout Competition Match on 18th November 2025?
The excitement is at its peak as cricket fans anticipate a thrilling Qualifier 1 in the CSA T20 Knockout Competition, and the Knights vs Border prediction is already generating plenty of buzz. Both teams have played fearless cricket this season, but only one can secure a direct entry into the grand finale. The Knights have been the standout performers of the tournament so far, losing only once in their six group-stage matches. Their consistency, strong home record, and in-form batting lineup make them the favourites on paper.
Border, meanwhile, have surprised many with their spirited performances. They stormed into the playoffs with a commanding win over Northern Cape and have proven that they are capable of pulling off big upsets. The two teams met earlier in the league stage, where Border defeated the Knights, which adds another layer of intrigue to this high-stakes clash. Today’s analysis, based on the variation of our prediction for Knights vs Border, explores whether Border can replicate that effort or if the Knights will reign supreme at their fortress—Mangaung Oval, Bloemfontein.
With both teams coming in with contrasting strengths—Knights’ batting firepower vs. Border’s fighting spirit—Qualifier 1 promises to deliver a contest filled with pressure, intent, and thrilling moments.
- Knights have lost only 1 of their 6 matches this season.
- Border defeated Knights in the league stage and enter with confidence.
- Knights remain unbeaten at home this season, winning 5 straight matches at this venue.
- Border’s bowling attack remains a concern heading into a high-pressure game.
Match Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Match | Knights vs Border, Qualifier 1 – CSA T20 Knockout 2025 |
| Date | Tuesday, 18 November 2025 |
| Time | 4:30 PM IST |
| Venue | Mangaung Oval, Bloemfontein |
| Broadcast | Fancode |
Knights Team Preview
Knights have been the most consistent outfit in this year’s CSA T20 Knockout Competition. With just one loss in their six league matches, they finished at the top of the table and look determined to maintain their winning run at home. Captain Malusi Siboto has managed his side brilliantly, rotating bowlers well and ensuring batters play to their strengths.
At the top of the order, Gihahn Cloete and Jacques Snyman have been exceptional. Cloete’s acceleration during the powerplay and Snyman’s ability to clear the ropes make them a dangerous opening duo. The middle order looks equally solid with experienced players like Rilee Rossouw, who remains one of the most explosive T20 batters in South Africa’s domestic circuit. Ruben Maree and Cole Abrahams provide stability, while Ruan Haasbroek and Seth Fledermaus strengthen the finishing department with their lower-order hitting.
Bowling has been Knights’ biggest strength. Sisanda Magala has been outstanding with the new ball, generating swing and early breakthroughs. Mbongiseni Mhlanga and Johannes van Dyk have supported him well by keeping the run flow in check. Captain Siboto along with Jacques Snyman provide valuable middle-over spells. Knights have a balanced attack with pace, swing, and experience—making them a formidable force at home.
The Knights will aim to dominate early, build scoreboard pressure, and use their familiarity with conditions to their advantage. With five consecutive wins at this venue, they enter this match with tremendous self-belief and strong momentum.
Border Team Preview
Border enter this knockout clash full of confidence after a big 69-run win over Northern Cape. They have played fearless cricket throughout the group stage and finished second on the table—a commendable achievement for a side many expected to struggle. Captain Nathan Roux has been the anchor around whom the team’s performances have revolved.
The batting looks competitive. Roux and Christiaan du Toit are responsible for giving Border strong starts. Du Toit’s ability to rotate strike and Roux’s aggressive approach complement each other well. In the middle order, Border rely heavily on Wian Ruthven, Jason Niemand, and Michael Copeland. These three have shown consistency, especially Ruthven, whose ability to play through the innings makes him crucial in a pressure match. Finishing duties are handled by Mncedisi Malika and all-rounder Jan Hardus Coetzer, both capable of producing quick cameos.
The biggest challenge for Border lies in their bowling attack. While they have defended targets well in a few games, inconsistency remains an issue. Thando Ntini, the most experienced pacer, must deliver breakthroughs early. Alindile Mhletywa and Kgaudisa Molefe will need to maintain tight lines in the middle overs. The support cast—Thozama Totana and Copeland—must avoid leaking runs, especially against an in-form Knights batting lineup.
To beat Knights in their own backyard, Border must be near-perfect in execution. Their batting can match Knights on its day, but the bowling unit needs to rise to the occasion to prevent the home side from dominating.
Probable Playing XIs
Knights
Malusi Siboto (c)
Gihahn Cloete (wk)
Jacques Snyman
Rilee Rossouw
Cole Abrahams
Ruben Maree
Ruan Haasbroek
Seth Fledermaus
Sisanda Magala
Johannes van Dyk
Mbongiseni Mhlanga
Border
Nathan Roux (c)
Christiaan du Toit
Wian Ruthven
Jason Niemand
Michael Copeland
Mncedisi Malika (wk)
Jan Hardus Coetzer
Alindile Mhletywa
Thando Ntini
Thozama Totana
Kgaudisa Molefe
Knights vs Border Today’s Dream11/Fantasy Prediction
| Role | Player |
|---|---|
| WK | Gihahn Cloete |
| BAT | Rilee Rossouw, Snyman, Ruthven |
| AR | Fledermaus, Coetzer, Niemand |
| BOWL | Magala, Ntini, van Dyk, Mhlanga |
This Fantasy XI is built to maximize scoring potential based on consistency and impact. Gihahn Cloete is the best wicketkeeper option thanks to his form at the top. Rilee Rossouw and Jacques Snyman ensure stability and attacking potential in the batting order. Wian Ruthven adds reliability for Border and often contributes in pressure stages.
The all-rounders Fledermaus, Coetzer, and Niemand add depth because they provide fantasy points through both batting and bowling. Fledermaus is especially valuable due to his finishing skills and useful overs.
The bowling trio—Magala, Ntini, and van Dyk—brings wicket-taking ability. Magala is in form, van Dyk controls middle overs superbly, and Ntini delivers early breakthroughs.
Captain & Vice-Captain Picks
Captain: Rilee Rossouw
Vice-Captain: Sisanda Magala
Players to Avoid
- Thozama Totana – inconsistent economy
- Johannes Mpungose – may not play enough overs to be impactful
Also Check: Get The Best Dream11 Prediction From Cricket Experts
Favourite Team Today
The Knights are the clear favourites heading into this contest. They have dominated the league phase with consistency, strong performances, and balance across departments. Their batting lineup features explosive players who can score quickly, while their bowling attack has been one of the most disciplined units of the tournament. Most importantly, the Knights’ exceptional home record gives them a huge advantage—they have won their last five matches at Mangaung Oval.
Border, although spirited, have weaknesses in their bowling unit, which may get exposed against a top-tier Knights side. Unless Border deliver their best-ever performance with the ball, the Knights are expected to control the game from start to finish. Their depth, experience, and home dominance make them strong contenders to secure a place in the final.
Pitch Report
Mangaung Oval offers a balanced T20 pitch with good carry and bounce for batters. Fast bowlers get movement early on, especially under afternoon conditions, while spinners find grip in the second half of the innings. Batters who apply themselves early are rewarded with a fast outfield and true bounce. A score of 160+ is competitive here, especially in a knockout match where pressure plays a big role.
Weather Report
Clear skies are expected with pleasant temperatures around 26°C. No rain interruptions are forecast, ensuring a full match.
Broadcast Details
Live Streaming: Fancode
Toss Prediction
Knights to win the toss and bat first.
Match Prediction
Winner: Knights Will Win
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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