Titans top order fail to deliver

Border made light work of a promising Northerns Titans top order that flattered to deceive as they were beaten by four wickets in their Standard Bank Cup match at Supersport Park on Sunday.

The toss was won by the home team, who elected to bat first considering that they were buoyed by a few Titans stalwarts.

Coach Dave Nosworthy had selected a batting line-up which he believed gave him enviable depth throughout the order.

On the basis of his team's form in the four-day game, there were few who were willing to challenge his optimism.

The in-form Neil McKenzie had been sacrificed to the national cause, but Nosworthy was pleased to announce that off-spinner Dirkie de Vos would take his place. Johan Myburgh, left out of the Supersport Series matches, was also back to partner opening bat Rudi Steyn.

But with his side on 24 for two, Nosworthy must have been wondering where he got it wrong. The Titans went on to put together a modest total of 137 all out in 38.5 overs.

A 36 from De Vos midway down the order was all Nosworthy had to cheer about, considering that was the most significant change the coach made to the team that thumped North West in a limited-overs match two months ago.

Left arm paceman Liam Graham did most of the damage for Border, claiming three wickets for only 18 runs in his six-over spell.

Graham was most effective in the 22nd over, taking both the wickets of Gerald Dros and Finlay Brooker in the space of four balls.

Set a victory target of 138 runs off 45 overs, the visitors cruised to victory with 12 overs to spare.

Pierre Strydom's 41 off only 39 balls, featuring five fours and one six, was the top score for his side before he was dismissed by Steve Elworthy.