Sunrisers Eastern Cape Chase Third SA20 Title in 4 Years

A cricket dynasty is being built in Gqeberha, and nothing can slow it down.

The Sunrisers Eastern Cape are heading into this week's SA20 playoffs as overwhelming favorites to capture their third title in just four seasons. They finished the regular season with the best record in the league, losing only three matches while earning bonus points in four of their five wins.

The team's success has turned their home stadium into one of cricket's most electric venues. "The crowd here is probably one of the best in the country," said batter Matthew Breetzke. "They're our 12th man, and they've gotten us through the tough moments."

But here's the twist that makes their run even more remarkable. Despite being the tournament's most successful franchise, the Sunrisers won't play a single playoff match at home.

The SA20 sets playoff venues before the season begins, meaning teams don't earn home advantage for finishing higher in the standings. This year's final will be held at Newlands Cricket Ground in Cape Town, hundreds of miles from Gqeberha.

The Bright Side

The lack of home games hasn't dampened spirits in Gqeberha. Instead, it's become a rallying cry for a team that's proven it can win anywhere.

The Sunrisers will face the Pretoria Capitals in Wednesday's Qualifier One match in Durban. A victory sends them straight to Saturday's final. Even a loss gives them another chance through Friday's Qualifier Two.

Their star-studded roster has dominated all season long. Their consistency separated them from competitors like defending champions MI Cape Town, who finished in last place for the third time in four seasons.

Meanwhile, the Joburg Super Kings pulled off a dramatic final-day victory to sneak into the playoffs as the fourth seed. They've now made the postseason three years running, always as the last team to qualify.

The path ahead looks clear for the Sunrisers. They've built something special in Gqeberha, a winning culture that travels well and a fan base that believes in every moment.

Saturday's final at Newlands could crown South Africa's first true cricket dynasty.