Knights crowned T20 Knockout champions

The Flexbrands Knights were crowned champions of the 2025/26 T20 Knockout competition after their 11-run victory over Eastern Cape Iinyathi on Monday.

The encounter went on to the reserve day at the Mangaung Oval after rain halted play on Sunday.

Batting first, Knights got off to a solid start, with Gerrit Snyman contributing 26 runs off 14 balls, including two fours and two sixes.

Isaac Dikgale anchored the innings with an impressive 57 runs from 51 balls, striking four boundaries along the way.

Cole Abrahams and Ruan Haasbroek also added valuable runs, with 16 and 23 runs respectively, and the hosts reached a respectable total of 155-7 in their 20 overs.

Iinyathi’s Alindile Mhletywa and Kgaudise Molefe took two wickets each in the bid to restricts the hosts.

Chasing 156, Iinyathi were also off to a good start. Nathan Roux led the charge with a determined 43 runs off 34 balls.

But, the Knights' bowlers, led by Gerrit Snyman, who took three wickets, kept the opposition in check.

Jason Niemand and Michael Copeland contributed 31 and 26 runs respectively, but their efforts were not enough to steer Iinyathi to victory.

With wickets falling at regular intervals, Iinyathi struggled to build partnerships, and as the pressure mounted they fell short, finishing their innings on 144-6.

Sisanda Magala and Malusi Siboto ensured the Knights maintained control of the game.

A disciplined bowling attack, combined with a few key breakthroughs, proved pivotal in securing the championship.

With this win, the Knights added this season’s T20 Knockout title to their accolades.

EASTERN CAPE INYATHI: Alindile Mhletywa, Christiaan Du Toit, Hardus Coetzer, Jason Niemand, Kgaudise Molefe, Masimphuthando Ntini, Michael Copeland, Mncedisi Malika (wk), Nathan Roux (c), Thozama Totana, Wian Ruthven

KNIGHTS: Cole Abrahams, Gerrit Snyman, Isaac Dikgale, Malusi Siboto (c), Mbongiseni Mhlanga, Patrick Botha, Ross Boast, Ruan Haasbroek (wk), Seth Fledermaus, Sisanda Magala, Tiaan Van Vuuren