Who Will Win Mpumalanga Rhinos vs Eastern Storm 2nd ODI 2026 Match Prediction
The Mpumalanga Rhinos vs Eastern Storm prediction for the 2nd ODI of the CSA Provincial One-Day Challenge Division Two 2026 points toward an intriguing battle at Willowmoore Park. Mpumalanga Rhinos enter this clash with strong momentum after an impressive campaign last season where they won five out of seven matches and narrowly missed the final. Eastern Storm, on the other hand, endured a difficult 2025 season, managing just two wins and struggling for consistency in both batting and bowling.
Willowmoore Park has historically favored chasing teams, with three of the last four matches at the venue won by the side batting second. The average first-innings score over the past two seasons stands at 237, indicating a competitive surface that offers assistance to both batters and bowlers. These numbers suggest that the toss will play a crucial role in determining the match strategy.
Mpumalanga Rhinos boast a well-balanced lineup featuring in-form skipper Muhammed Mayet and key contributors like Jurie Snyman and Hermann Rolfes. Their bowling attack has depth and discipline, while their batting lineup maintains a healthy strike rate close to 80. Eastern Storm, captained by Grant Thomson, will aim to bounce back and utilize home conditions effectively. However, their record at home—just one win in the last five games—raises concerns.
Given last season’s head-to-head results and overall squad depth, Mpumalanga Rhinos appear slightly stronger on paper. Cricketwebs provides comprehensive match prediction insights, including pitch analysis, probable XIs, and winning chances for this exciting Division Two encounter.
Match Details
| Match | MPU vs ESTORM, 2nd ODI 2026 |
|---|---|
| Date | Saturday, 21st February 2026 |
| Time | 1:30 PM IST |
| Venue | Willowmoore Park, Benoni |
| Tournament | CSA Provincial One-Day Challenge Division Two |
| Broadcaster | Fancode |
Eastern Storm Preview
Eastern Storm will be eager to put last season’s disappointing campaign behind them. Under Grant Thomson’s leadership, the side managed just two wins from seven games in 2025. The primary issue was inconsistency in both departments, particularly the batting unit that frequently collapsed under pressure.
The top order will play a critical role in this contest. Kabelo Sekhukhune and Jason van Dyk must provide solid starts to avoid exposing the fragile middle order too early. Grant Thomson himself has been the standout batter, scoring close to 600 runs over the last two seasons. His ability to anchor innings while accelerating when needed makes him central to Eastern Storm’s hopes.
Christopher Britz and Dewan Marais add stability in the middle order, while Danie Rossouw and Mekyle Pillay offer late-innings firepower. However, their challenge lies in building partnerships rather than relying on individual brilliance.
The bowling attack struggled last season, with no bowler finishing among the top ten wicket-takers. Andrew Rasemene and Amaan Khan need to strike early with the new ball to put pressure on Mpumalanga’s top order. Mekyle Pillay remains their key bowling asset, supported by Martin Khumalo and Tumelo Simelane. If these bowlers can maintain discipline and limit extras, Eastern Storm could stay competitive.
Playing at home should give them some confidence, but recent home form has been poor. To overcome a strong Mpumalanga side, Eastern Storm must deliver a collective performance rather than depend on individual contributions.
Mpumalanga Rhinos Preview
Mpumalanga Rhinos were one of the most consistent teams last season, winning five out of seven games and finishing third on the table. Captain Muhammed Mayet has been instrumental, losing only twice in his last eight matches. His leadership and batting form—265 runs last season—provide stability to the lineup.
Jurie Snyman and Zakir Kathrada are expected to provide solid starts. Yassar Cook and Benjamin van Niekerk strengthen the middle order, ensuring depth and reliability. The lower middle order, including Nonelela Yikha and Themba Maupa, can accelerate the scoring rate effectively.
The bowling department is equally impressive. Gareth Dukes and Jon Hinrichsen form a potent new-ball pair capable of exploiting early movement. Hermann Rolfes was the standout bowler last season and remains crucial in middle overs. Akhulile Mkhatu and Jurie Snyman provide additional options, giving the Rhinos a versatile attack.
The team’s balanced combination of experienced batters and disciplined bowlers makes them formidable. If they execute their plans effectively, they can replicate last season’s success and begin this campaign on a winning note.
Team Squad
Eastern Storm Squad
Grant Thomson (c), Kabelo Sekhukhune, Jason van Dyk, Christopher Britz, Dewan Marais, Danie Rossouw (wk), Mekyle Pillay, Andrew Rasemene, Amaan Khan, Tumelo Simelane, Martin Khumalo.
Mpumalanga Rhinos Squad
Muhammed Mayet (c), Jurie Snyman, Yassar Cook, Benjamin van Niekerk, Themba Maupa, Gareth Dukes, Nonelela Yikha, Hermann Rolfes, Zakir Kathrada (wk), Jon Hinrichsen, Akhulile Mkhatu.
Probable Playing XI
| Eastern Storm | Mpumalanga Rhinos |
|---|---|
| Grant Thomson (c) | Muhammed Mayet (c) |
| Kabelo Sekhukhune | Jurie Snyman |
| Jason van Dyk | Yassar Cook |
| Christopher Britz | Benjamin van Niekerk |
| Dewan Marais | Themba Maupa |
| Danie Rossouw (wk) | Gareth Dukes |
| Mekyle Pillay | Nonelela Yikha |
| Andrew Rasemene | Hermann Rolfes |
| Amaan Khan | Zakir Kathrada (wk) |
| Tumelo Simelane | Jon Hinrichsen |
| Martin Khumalo | Akhulile Mkhatu |
Favourite Team in Today’s Match – Why?
Mpumalanga Rhinos are the favourite in today’s clash against Eastern Storm primarily due to their stronger recent form and balance across both batting and bowling. Last season, the Rhinos won five out of seven matches and narrowly missed the final, showcasing greater consistency and depth compared to Eastern Storm’s underwhelming campaign. Key batters like Muhammed Mayet and Jurie Snyman provide stability with the bat, while bowlers like Hermann Rolfes and Gareth Dukes offer wicket-taking options capable of restricting oppositions.
Eastern Storm struggled with both batting collapses and ineffective bowling last year, and although they play at home, their record—just one home win in the last five games—raises concerns about momentum and confidence. Mpumalanga’s experience in tight matches and their all-round capabilities give them a slight edge. Given overall team balance, proven performers, and tactical depth, Mpumalanga Rhinos are better positioned to secure a win in this encounter.
Pitch Report
Willowmoore Park in Benoni typically offers a balanced batting surface where both batters and bowlers can find success. Early overs often provide some movement for seamers with the new ball, especially under bright skies, while the pitch generally eases for batters as the innings progresses. Teams batting second have enjoyed success in recent seasons, indicating that chasing is not a disadvantage here. A competitive total on this wicket is usually around 230–250 runs. Spinners may come into play during the middle overs, but it’s the seam and swing bowlers who tend to have the most impact. Overall, the pitch encourages positive cricket from both disciplines.
Weather Report
| Condition | Details |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 20–26°C |
| Rain Chances | 10% |
| Humidity | 55% |
| Wind | Light Breeze |
| Conditions | Mostly Sunny |
Weather in Benoni is expected to be clear and favorable, with minimal rain risk. Warm conditions should help batters settle in while light breezes might assist seamers early on.
Broadcast Details
The Mpumalanga Rhinos vs Eastern Storm 2nd ODI 2026 will be streamed live on Fancode, offering ball-by-ball commentary and live score updates. Fans can follow the match online with full coverage, expert analysis, and highlights available on major cricket platforms and digital apps.
Toss Prediction
At Willowmoore Park, conditions often favor chasing teams, especially later in the day when dew can influence play. Captains may opt to bowl first after winning the toss to exploit early bowling conditions and target a manageable chase. Toss Winner Prediction: Mpumalanga Rhinos are likely to bowl first if they win the toss.
Probable Batsman & Bowler
Muhammed Mayet is the standout candidate for top batsman in today’s game. As Mpumalanga’s leading run scorer last season, his consistency and ability to anchor the innings make him a prime choice to score big. Grant Thomson is Eastern Storm’s most reliable batter—his experience and recent form could stabilize the middle order.
On the bowling front, Hermann Rolfes is expected to be the most dangerous bowler, with his knack for picking crucial wickets in middle overs. Gareth Dukes also brings pressure with consistent seam bowling early on. For Eastern Storm, Mekyle Pillay could be the key wicket taker with his ability to strike in middle overs and break partnerships. Andrew Rasemene may also make an impact with the new ball by making early inroads.
Mpumalanga Rhinos vs Eastern Storm Winning Chances?
| Team | Winning % | Why | Why Not |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mpumalanga Rhinos | 68% | Strong recent form, balanced squad | Away conditions, pressure of expectation |
| Eastern Storm | 32% | Home conditions, chance to bounce back | Inconsistent batting, weaker bowling depth |
Match Prediction
Mpumalanga Rhinos hold the edge due to greater consistency last season, a balanced lineup, and match-winners in both batting and bowling. Eastern Storm will utilize home conditions but must vastly improve their batting depth and bowling discipline to challenge effectively. Given form, squad depth, and strategic advantage, Mpumalanga Rhinos are likely to win this 2nd ODI showdown at Willowmoore Park.
Prediction: Mpumalanga Rhinos 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.
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