Eastern Province lose first match after poor batting

three wickets each and bowled with good control.

EP were in full control at one stage gripping the Aloes side with 145 for 8.

However, batsmen numbers 8 and 10 put up an invaluable 70 runs partnership that saw them reached 214 runs in their 50 overs.

EP’s run chase got the worst of starts, as they lost their first wicket with the score on zero.

Mtunzi Antoni (17) and debutant Jonno Fletcher (32) got the innings back on track with a fine 43-run partnership.

But the visitors kept losing wickets at regular intervals and were unable to build partnerships and momentum.

Captain Brandon Handley’s top score with 35 while Charlie Muir (17) and Lunga Stamper (15) added to the tally.

EP were eventually bowled out for 152 in the 41st over.

EP Rural next face Boland West at Shaw Park on Saturday 24 October.