The SA20 2025-26 league stage reaches its climax as the Sunrisers Eastern Cape (SEC) host MI Cape Town (MICT) in Match 29. For the Sunrisers, who have already secured a playoff spot, this game is a quest for a top-two finish to earn a double chance in the qualifiers. For the defending champions, MI Cape Town, this is a do-or-die encounter; after keeping their hopes alive with a gritty win over the Sunrisers just two days ago, they must win again to stay in contention for the final playoff berth.
SEC vs MICT, SA20 2025-26: Match Details
- Date and Time: January 18 (Sunday); 7:00 pm IST / 1:30 pm GMT / 3:30 pm LOCAL
- Venue: St George’s Park, Gqeberha
Head-to-Head Record (SA20):
Matches played: 8 | Sunrisers Eastern Cape won: 4 | MI Cape Town won: 4
St George’s Park, Gqeberha Pitch Report
St George’s Park remains one of South Africa’s most atmospheric venues, famous for its brass band and coastal breeze. The surface here historically assists swing and seam, especially in the Powerplay. Recent stats show that pacers have dominated spinners nearly 2:1 at this ground. The average first-innings score this season has been around 155-165. While the “Gqeberha breeze” can make it tricky for batters, those who settle in can capitalize on the relatively smaller dimensions. Given the afternoon start and the potential for the pitch to slow down, the captain winning the toss might elect to bowl first to utilize any early moisture.
Sunrisers Eastern Cape vs MI Cape Town: Team Dynamics and Key Players
Sunrisers Eastern Cape: The two-time champions have been the model of consistency. Quinton de Kock and Jonny Bairstow form a formidable opening pair, while young James Coles has emerged as a breakout star with his all-round contributions. The bowling unit is their greatest strength, led by the express pace of Anrich Nortje and the discipline of Ottniel Baartman, who is currently among the leading wicket-takers. Marco Jansen’s recent 48-run blitz against MICT highlights the depth in their batting order.
MI Cape Town: The defending champions have struggled for consistency but possess immense individual brilliance. Ryan Rickelton has been the standout batter of the tournament, recently crossing the 300-run mark. With Rashid Khan unavailable, Nicholas Pooran has taken over the leadership reins. Their bowling attack, featuring the veteran Trent Boult and the in-form Corbin Bosch (fresh off a 4-wicket haul), will need to repeat their heroics from Friday to dismantle the SEC top order.
Also READ: SA20 2026 – Full list of commentators and presenters at South Africa’s explosive T20 cricket league
SEC vs MICT, SA20 2025-26: Today’s Match Prediction
Case 1:
- Sunrisers Eastern Cape wins the toss and bowls first
- MI Cape Town powerplay score: 42-52 (6 overs)
- MI Cape Town total score: 155-170
Case 2:
- MI Cape Town wins the toss and bowls first
- Sunrisers Eastern Cape powerplay score: 48-58 (6 overs)
- Sunrisers Eastern Cape total score: 170-185
Match result: Sunrisers Eastern Cape to win the contest.
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