The Heat and Rocks only have one win each to show for the Mzansi Super League so far, but a second triumph beckons for one of them.

Durban Heat

While crowd numbers probably won’t count in their favour, conditions almost certainly will. The Heat have been unsuccessful at other venues, but a return to Kingsmead will bring a sense of calm as they attempt to capitalise on a track where a large majority of their personnel are quite comfortable. Khaya Zondo and Kyle Abbott have been their best batsman and bowler, respectively, with Albie Morkel key in both departments. His participation in this fixture remains in the balance, as the Heat assess the arm injury sustained during the defeat to the Nelson Mandela Bay Giants.

Paarl Rocks

The arrival of Faf du Plessis has been a big boost for the Rocks, who managed to lift themselves from the foot of the six-team standings with a win over the log-leading Cape Town Blitz late last week. Du Plessis has identified the need to capitalise on the momentum gained from that triumph – and the Rocks must do just that. The decision to open the bowling with spinner Bjorn Fortuin was a masterstroke – and might continue at a ground similarly conducive to such a unique role.

Battle within the war

Watching Marchant de Lange bowl to Vaughn van Jaarsveld could yield quite a spectacle. The hard-hitting left-hander won’t be afraid to take on anything short from the lanky fast bowler. Both their Proteas careers never quite got going, so it’s nice to witness them in action on this platform, at least.

Prediction

The Rocks, indeed, have the momentum – and will likely put one over an admittedly inconsistent Durban unit. Heat head coach Grant Morgan said it, and yes, momentum should outdo inconsistency here.

Where to next

The Heat will head to Johannesburg to take on the Stars, while the Rocks will travel to Port Elizabeth to clash with the Giants. Both matches are on Friday.

Image: Gallo