Lions vs Titans 4-Day Series Final 2025: Day 2 Highlights, Pitch Report, Score Prediction & Fantasy Picks

DP World Lions Steady the Ship in 4-Day Series Final Against Titans

Van Buuren and Hamza Partnership Gives Lions Early Control in Rain-Hit Final

The much-anticipated Division 1 4-Day Series Final of 2025 between DP World Lions and Momentum Multiply Titans at the iconic DP World Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg finally got underway albeit after an anxious wait. After an entire day lost to rain and further delays due to a damp outfield on day two, cricket fans finally witnessed some quality first-class action. And it was the Lions who made the most of the limited opportunity, finishing the curtailed day on 160 for 2 courtesy of a composed partnership between Mitchell van Buuren and Zubayr Hamza.

Rain Takes Centre Stage Before Cricket Resumes

This final, expected to be a blockbuster between two of South Africa's best domestic sides, was unfortunately at the mercy of the unpredictable Johannesburg weather. Day one was completely washed out a disappointing start to a five-day final. Day two began under cloudy skies, and even after the rain ceased, the ground staff had to work overtime to make conditions playable at the Wanderers.

When play eventually resumed, only 42 overs were possible. But in those overs, DP World Lions showed their class, maturity, and tactical understanding of the conditions.

Early Setback for the Lions Titans Strike First Blood

After winning the toss and opting to bat first, Lions would have hoped for a solid opening stand. However, veteran pacer Junior Dala had other ideas. The experienced campaigner, who has often delivered in crunch moments for the Titans, struck in his very first over. He removed Dominic Hendricks for just 15, inducing a catch to Janco Smit at extra cover.

This early blow at 28-1 could have rattled many teams in a final. But not the Lions.

Joshua Richards and Zubayr Hamza The Rebuild Phase

Joshua Richards, known for his ability to occupy the crease, joined hands with Zubayr Hamza to settle the early nerves. The duo added a valuable 52-run partnership for the second wicket, navigating a testing spell of bowling from the Titans’ attack.

Richards played a steady knock of 38 before Smit managed to trap him, leaving the Lions at 80 for 2. It was then left to Hamza and Mitchell van Buuren to guide their side safely to stumps.

Van Buuren and Hamza Patience, Class and a Touch of Flair

Once Mitchell van Buuren arrived at the crease, the momentum subtly shifted in favour of the Lions. Hamza, already well-set, continued his methodical approach, while Van Buuren blended caution with some beautiful stroke play.

Hamza crafted an unbeaten 49 from 84 deliveries, laced with eight crisp boundaries the kind of innings that speaks volumes about his temperament in pressure situations. Van Buuren, on the other hand, was quick to take advantage of anything loose, scoring an unbeaten 50 from just 71 balls. His innings included nine elegant fours and two maximums showing his ability to shift gears when required.

Their unbeaten 80-run stand became the bedrock of the Lions’ fightback on a day when batting wasn’t the easiest.

Titans Bowling Attack Early Promise, But Lack of Penetration Later

Despite Junior Dala’s early breakthrough and Smit's crucial wicket of Richards, the Momentum Multiply Titans struggled to maintain sustained pressure as the day progressed. With only two wickets in 42 overs, their attack seemed to lack the firepower needed to dislodge a resolute Lions middle order.

Perhaps the pitch, damp to begin with, eased out as the day went along, allowing the Lions’ batters to settle. Or maybe it was the sheer discipline and skill of Hamza and Van Buuren that kept the Titans at bay.

Conditions and Pitch Report — Wanderers a Bowler's Ally Early On

The pitch at the DP World Wanderers always offers something for the quick bowlers early in a match particularly after rain interruptions. The damp conditions ensured there was some movement for the seamers, but once the ball got older and the moisture dried out, it became better for batting.

Moving into day three, with clearer skies forecasted, the pitch is likely to become even more batting-friendly. But morning sessions at the Wanderers have historically favoured seamers, so the first hour will be crucial for both sides.

Score Prediction for Day Three

Given the way Hamza and Van Buuren have applied themselves, the Lions would look to push their score towards 350-plus, if weather permits full play. If Titans fail to strike early on day three, Lions could take the game away from them by building a formidable first innings total.

Dream11 Fantasy Game Combination

For fantasy cricket lovers, Mitchell van Buuren looks like a must-have based on current form. Zubayr Hamza’s solidity also makes him a smart pick. From the Titans’ side, Junior Dala remains the bowler to watch, especially with the new ball on day three. An all-round fantasy team focusing on these key players alongside swing bowlers for the morning session is recommended.

Players likely to score more fantasy points:

• Mitchell van Buuren (likely big score coming)

• Zubayr Hamza (anchor role crucial)

• Junior Dala (early wickets possible)

• Joshua Richards (steady top-order contribution)

Interesting Facts From The Final So Far

• This is the first time in the 2025 4-Day Series that DP World Lions have faced such lengthy weather interruptions.

• The 80-run partnership between Van Buuren and Hamza is one of the highest unbroken stands in this year’s final.

• Junior Dala continues to be a final specialist, having taken vital wickets in the last three 4-Day Series finals he has played.