4Day Series Final 2025: Hamza Century and Sipamla’s Fiery Spell Put Lions on Top Against Titans

Zubayr Hamza and Lutho Sipamla Script Commanding Lead for Lions in 4Day Series Final 2025

Zubayr Hamza’s unforgettable century on his 100th first-class appearance, combined with Lutho Sipamla’s fiery spell late on Day 3, has put DP World Lions firmly in the driver’s seat against Momentum Multiply Titans in the Division 1 4Day Series Final 2025 at the DP World Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg.

On a day that finally saw full play after weather interruptions on the first two days, the Lions made sure to stamp their authority on the contest. From Hamza’s milestone ton to a destructive late burst with the ball, the Johannesburg crowd was treated to a dominating display of red-ball cricket at its best.

Hamza’s Magnificent Century Gives Lions the Upper Hand

Coming into Day 3 at a healthy 160 for 2, Zubayr Hamza and Mitchell van Buuren were the overnight batters, poised to build on the solid foundation laid earlier. Although their partnership was halted early at 89 runs when van Buuren was bowled for a well-made 73 by Janco Smit, it hardly dented Hamza’s focus.

Hamza, one of South Africa’s most elegant stroke-makers, continued to march towards his landmark hundred with poise and calmness. He reached his 18th first-class century off 198 balls, laced with 15 beautiful boundaries. What made this knock even more special was the occasion his 100th first-class match a true testament to his resilience and class over the years.

The right-hander eventually fell for 103, also to Smit, but by then, Lions were cruising at 290 for 5, having weathered the Titans' attempts to break through.

Lower Order Fireworks Extend the Lions’ Total

Following Hamza’s departure, the Lions' middle and lower order decided to pile on the misery for the Titans. Wandile Makwetu contributed a handy 26, but the real fireworks came from Delano Potgieter and Bjorn Fortuin. The duo added a sparkling 108-run stand for the seventh wicket.

Fortuin, known for his gritty batting, scored a quick-fire 62, while Potgieter remained unbeaten on 48 when Lions declared their innings at an imposing 413 for 7 in the 110th over. The timing of the declaration was spot on, giving their bowlers ample time to attack in the remaining session.

Sipamla and Fortuin Rattle Titans Top Order

If the Titans thought the worst was over after Lions' declaration, they were in for a rude shock. Bjorn Fortuin started the Titans' collapse by removing opener Joshua van Heerden for just 1 run.

What followed was sheer brilliance from Lutho Sipamla. The right-arm quick produced a sensational over to dismiss Titans’ in-form captain Neil Brand for 9 before knocking over South African prodigy Dewald Brevis for a golden duck, trapping him lbw.

Sipamla’s figures at stumps read 2 for 8 in just 4 overs, and with the Titans reeling at 17 for 3, the pressure had well and truly mounted.

Lions in Total Control as Titans Face Uphill Battle

By the end of Day 3, Momentum Multiply Titans were left staring at a mountain to climb. Trailing by 396 runs with only seven wickets in hand and two full days of cricket remaining, the Centurion-based side finds itself in serious trouble.

With their top-order stars back in the pavilion and a fired-up Lions bowling attack to contend with, survival looks difficult unless their middle and lower order can summon a herculean effort.