SOUTHERN CAPE CRICKET NEWS - The South Western Districts cricket team concluded their campaign in the Cricket South Africa three day competition with a draw against Eastern Province on Saturday. It was again Obus Pienaar who made the step up to rescue the home team from certain defeat.

In a high-scoring match the visitors from Port Elizabeth, who won the toss, amassed 454/3 (declared) in their first innings with a century by Josh van Heerden (163) the highlight.

SWD responded with 328 thanks to half-centuries by Brendon Louw (87), Lothli Sesele (83) and Kerwin Christoffels (54). Thomas Kaber (5/72) and Luvyo Adam (5/89) both bagged five wickets to ensure a lead of 125 for Eastern Province. In their second innings Eastern Province - who batted at 6 runs per over - declared their first innings at 186/2 (after 31 overs) setting SWD a stiff target of 312.

SWD were with their back against the wall on 93/6 when Obus Pienaar struck an unbeaten century (102 not out - 189 balls, 2x6, 18x4) and together with Neil Hornbuckle (44) added a partnership of 115 runs in 39 overs to secure a draw.

SWD ended on 227 (74 overs).

SWD ended the season at 124,04 bonus points and are currently in the second position in Pool B but can be surpassed by a team who have matches in hand.

In the previous season (2017/28) SWD ended on 117 bonus points, but two matches were rained out this season which hampered bonus point opportunities.

Marcello Piedt (35 wickets at an average of 18,57 and three five-wicket hauls) is the leading wicket taker this season.

Currently Obus Pienaar (957 runs at an average of 79,75 - 4 centuries and 5 half centuries) and Marcello Piedt (35 wickets at an average of 18,57 and three five-wicket hauls) are the leading runs scorer and wicket taker, respectively, in the competition.

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