Schools SA20: Garsfontein & Graeme College Secure Semifinal Spots on Thrilling Day 2

Schools SA20: Garsfontein & Graeme College Secure Semifinal Spots on Thrilling Day 2

The second day of the Schools SA20 Final Showdown in Pretoria delivered high drama as Hoërskool Garsfontein and Graeme College became the first teams to book their places in the semifinals of the boys' division. In a day dominated by bowlers and weather interruptions, Garsfontein’s all-round brilliance and Graeme College’s clinical execution ensured their progression to the next stage.

Garsfontein's Dominant Display

Local favorites Garsfontein made a strong statement with two commanding wins, first defeating St Andrew’s School Bloemfontein by eight wickets and later securing a crucial 19-run victory over Northwood School from Durban in a rain-reduced seven-over match.

Opening batter Reuben van Zyl continued his impressive form, scoring a vital 23 runs in the afternoon fixture. Earlier in the day, he had played a match-winning knock of 52 against St Andrew’s, setting up a comfortable chase.

The bowling duo of Ben Cilliers (3/9) and Kyle White (2/6) caused problems for Northwood, restricting them to just 34 runs. In the morning session, Ruan Coetzee (4/17) and captain Xander Venter (2/4) dismantled St Andrew’s, leading Garsfontein to an eight-wicket win.

Graeme College Holds Nerve to Advance

Graeme College from Makhanda clinched their semifinal spot in a rain-affected five-over match against St Andrew’s. Batting first, Graeme posted 43/3, with Enrique Strydom (15*) leading the charge. St Andrew’s, needing at least 34 runs to deny Graeme a bonus point, fell short at 29/6.

Ajay Jeggels (2/10) and Ethan Bokbaard (2/11) played key roles in ensuring Graeme College’s defense held firm, securing their place in the last four.

Bishops' Mixed Fortunes: Record Win Followed by Upset Loss

Bishops Diocesan College began their Schools SA20 campaign in spectacular fashion, thrashing Pearson High School by a record 142-run margin. Julian Pilkington stole the show, claiming the tournament’s first five-wicket haul (5/6) as Pearson was bundled out for just 48.

Despite that dominant performance, Bishops were stunned in their afternoon game, suffering a seven-wicket defeat to Cricket South Africa’s Hub Invitational XI in another rain-shortened encounter. Bishops posted 44/3 in their five overs, with Adnaan Lagadien (14) providing a crucial contribution. However, the Hub Invitational XI chased it down with one ball to spare, thanks to a composed finish by Ryall Julies (5*).

Bishops now face a must-win clash against the unbeaten St David’s Marist in their final pool match, which will effectively serve as a quarterfinal for a place in the semifinals.

Key Performances of the Day

• Reuben van Zyl (Garsfontein): 52 vs St Andrew’s, 23 vs Northwood

• Julian Pilkington (Bishops): 5/6 vs Pearson

• Ben Cilliers (Northwood): 3/9 vs Garsfontein

• Echard Struwig (Garsfontein): 3/8 vs Northwood

• Ajay Jeggels (Graeme College): 2/10 vs St Andrew’s

Tournament Approaches Knockout Stage

With the semifinals drawing closer, the competition is intensifying. Garsfontein and Graeme College have secured their spots, while Bishops must overcome St David’s in their final group game to progress. Meanwhile, Northwood and other teams remain in contention, making for an exciting climax to the group stage.