Eastern Cape Iinyathi vs ACDC Express Tuskers: Division 2 One Day Cup Final Preview

Eastern Cape Iinyathi and ACDC Express Tuskers Set for High-Stakes Division 2 One Day Cup Final

Iinyathi Aim for Historic First Title While Unbeaten Tuskers Look to Secure Another Trophy

PIETERMARITZBURG – Eastern Cape Iinyathi and ACDC Express Tuskers are set to clash in a highly anticipated Division 2 One Day Cup Final at the AET Pietermaritzburg Oval on Friday, March 14, 2025. With both teams coming off strong campaigns, this final promises to be a thrilling contest as Iinyathi chase their first title in the revamped domestic structure, while the unbeaten Tuskers look to complete a dominant season with another piece of silverware.

A Season of Dominance for Both Teams

After seven rounds of intense cricket, both Iinyathi and Tuskers have established themselves as the two standout teams of the tournament. Iinyathi, based out of Buffalo Park, have been in superb form, suffering just one defeat ironically, against their final opponents, the Tuskers.

On the other hand, the home side, ACDC Express Tuskers, have been unstoppable. They remain unbeaten in the competition and already have a T20 Knock-Out title to their name this season. With the added advantage of playing at their fortress in Pietermaritzburg, the Tuskers will be confident in their ability to finish the season on a high.

Iinyathi Captain Jerome Bossr Confident in His Team’s Preparation

Leading from the front, Jerome Bossr, Iinyathi’s top run-scorer, has been instrumental in guiding his team to the final. The skipper emphasized the team’s mindset heading into the high-pressure clash.

"Something we live by in our team environment is staying present and soaking up the moment. A goal of ours was to make the final, and now we are looking to put our best foot forward. The lads are very excited and looking forward to playing in a final," Bossr said.

Despite facing an undefeated team on their home turf, Bossr remains confident in Iinyathi’s ability to adapt and execute their game plan.

"Against a side like the Tuskers, you don't want to give anything away for free. You always want to execute your plans well and focus on what we need to do. The Pietermaritzburg Oval won't be too much of a surprise for us, and we have always been a team that adapts quickly to conditions."

Tuskers Captain Michael Erlank Eyes Second Trophy of the Season

For Tuskers captain Michael Erlank, the final is an opportunity to complete a memorable double, having already secured the T20 Knock-Out title earlier in the season.

"To win another trophy this season would be unbelievable," Erlank expressed. "This is what we play for at the end of the day. We train hard and play to be in finals and to win finals."

The Tuskers hold a formidable record at the Pietermaritzburg Oval this season, with two wins and one rain-affected game. Erlank hopes their home advantage and local crowd support will add to their momentum.

"It's very exciting to be playing the final at home, and hopefully, we can get the crowds in to come and support the team," he added.

Even though the Tuskers registered a comfortable round-robin victory over Iinyathi earlier in the tournament, Erlank expects a closely contested final.

"They have been playing some really good cricket over the last few weeks, and we've also been in good form, so it should be a great match," he said. "We won't be changing anything and will go into the final with the same mindset and attitude we've had for the last two months. If we execute to the best of our ability, I think we'll be on the right side of the result on Friday."

Match Details

Venue: AET Pietermaritzburg Oval
Date: Friday, March 14, 2025
Start Time: 10:00 AM Local Time

Both teams will be looking to cap off a remarkable campaign with a title, making this one of the most exciting Division 2 One Day Cup finals in recent history.

Key Players to Watch

Eastern Cape Iinyathi

• Jerome Bossr (Captain, Batsman) – The tournament’s leading run-scorer and a key figure in Iinyathi’s batting lineup.
• Key All-Rounders & Bowlers – With a balanced squad, Iinyathi will need contributions from their middle order and bowlers to challenge the formidable Tuskers.

ACDC Express Tuskers

• Michael Erlank (Captain, Batsman) – The experienced leader looking to guide his team to another title.
• Unbeaten Streak & Home Advantage – Tuskers’ perfect record and strong form at Pietermaritzburg Oval make them the favorites.

What’s at Stake

For Iinyathi, this is a golden opportunity to clinch their first-ever trophy under the new domestic structure. Their journey to the final has been filled with resilience and determination, and they will be eager to make history.

For Tuskers, winning two titles in one season would cement their reputation as one of the most dominant teams in South African domestic cricket.

With two in-form teams, high-quality players, and silverware on the line, the Division 2 One Day Cup Final promises to be a thrilling encounter.