Pretorius and Viljoen Star as Paarl Royals Eliminate Joburg Super Kings from SA20 2026

Paarl Royals defeated Joburg Super Kings by 36 runs in the Eliminator of SA20 2026. They won the match on the back of a strong performance by Lhuan-dre Pretorius, who scored a brilliant fifty in the first innings of the match. The bowling performance of Royals was also quite exceptional, as they successfully defended the total of 210 by restricting Super Kings to just 174 runs.

The batting lineup of Royals looked in good touch in the first innings. Their openers, Lhuan-dre Pretorius and Kyle Verreynne, took on the JSK bowlers positively to set an early tone in the match. The knock of Kyle Verreynne was impressive, as he scored quick 30 runs at a strike rate of 200 in the Powerplay.

After his dismissal, Lhuan-dre Pretorius made a steady partnership with Dan Lawrence to take the innings forward. He scored a brisk 51 off just 34 balls, providing the Royals with a strong foundation to post a big first-innings total. An unfortunate run-out brought his impressive knock to an end, offering the struggling Super Kings bowlers some respite.

The arrival of Sikandar Raza at number five added more impetus to the Royals innings, as he blasted 35 off 19 balls with the help of 2 fours and 3 sixes. Due to that, Paarl Royals scored a big total of 210 in the first innings, which eventually proved to be a match-winning score.

When Joburg Super Kings started their chase, they never looked in control at the crease. Apart from James Vince, the top order fell cheaply without entering into double figures. Similarly, Matthew de Villiers and Leus du Plooy in the middle order also failed to provide any resistance, as Royals took back-to-back wickets to gain an edge in the match.

James Vince also lost his wicket after scoring 47 runs, adding further pressure on the Super Kings’ batting lineup. Wiaan Mulder then attempted to play a lone hand to keep the chase alive, but failed to find a strong partner at the other end. After his dismissal, Joburg Super Kings quickly folded for just 174 runs, handing Paarl Royals a convincing victory in the Eliminator. The rampant Royals will now face Sunrisers Eastern Cape in Qualifier 2 to battle for a spot in the SA20 2026 final.