The SA20 tournament witnessed the advent of a dynamic and energetic force in the form of Pretoria Capitals, a South African professional Twenty20 franchise cricket team. Established in 2022, the team has been making waves with its spirited gameplay and competitive spirit.
Rooted in Pretoria: The team proudly represents Pretoria, South Africa, and calls the iconic Centurion Park Cricket ground its home. The city’s fervor for cricket resonates within the team, inspiring them to represent their home with passion and dedication.
Leadership and Coaching: Under the stewardship of Wayne Parnell as the team’s captain, the Pretoria Capitals have found a dynamic leader whose experience and skill set will guide the team to achieve its goals. Graham Ford, an experienced and esteemed coach, ensures the team is well-drilled and prepared for every challenge.
Ownership and Vision: The franchise is backed by the JSW Group, offering support and resources essential for the team’s growth and development. Their vision to build a competitive and successful team is reflected in their commitment to nurturing talent and fostering a winning culture.
The Squad: The Pretoria Capitals’ squad for the inaugural season exhibits a blend of domestic talent and international expertise. Wayne Parnell leads the team with experienced players such as Rilee Rossouw and Cameron Delport bolstering the batting line-up. The inclusion of Marco Marais and Shaun von Berg contributes depth and skill to the team’s overall performance.
International Stars: The team’s blend of international players is a testament to its ambition. With the likes of Adil Rashid, James Neesham, and Josh Little, the Capitals boast international experience and versatile skill sets that are vital for T20 cricket.
Local Talents and Emerging Prospects: Pretoria Capitals have also put faith in local talent, providing a platform for budding cricketers like Eathan Bosch, Daryn Dupavillon, and Senuran Muthusamy to shine on a larger stage.
Wicket-Keepers and Spin Bowlers: The Capitals have strategic depth in their squad with proficient wicket-keepers like Kusal Mendis and Phil Salt. Adil Rashid’s spin wizardry adds another dimension to their bowling attack.
Most runs
| Player | Runs | Batting average | High score | 100s | 50s |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Will Jacks | 270 | 38.57 | 92 | 0 | 3 |
| Phil Salt | 238 | 29.75 | 77* | 0 | 2 |
| Theunis de Bruyn | 21.63 | 53 | 0 | 1 | |
| Kusal Mendis | 223 | 31.85 | 80 | 0 | 1 |
| Rilee Rossouw | 202 | 18.36 | 56 | 0 | 1 |
Most wickets
| Player | Wickets | Bowling average | Best bowling |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anrich Nortje | 20 | 13.25 | 3/12 |
| Eathan Bosch | 15 | 21.40 | 3/12 |
| James Neesham | 14 | 17.92 | 3/7 |
| Adil Rashid | 14 | 19.64 | 2/15 |
| Wayne Parnell | 10 | 19.90 | 3/14 |
The Pretoria Capitals are set to etch their mark in South African cricket with their spirited performances and the commitment to compete at the highest level. The infusion of experience, youth, and strategic leadership positions them as a formidable force in the SA20 tournament, ready to captivate cricketing enthusiasts and bring glory to their city.
