Marques makes his mark

A MEASURED, mature first hundred for the Dolphins by Marques Ackerman helped his side to 330 for seven at the close of day one of their CSA 4-Day Franchise Series clash with the VKB Knights at the Pietermaritzburg Oval yesterday.

On a steamy morning Dolphins captain Khaya Zondo won the toss and elected to bat on a dry wickets at the Oval.

Initially the Dolphins had to manage a strong start with the ball from the visitors and openers Sarel Erwee and SA Under 19 star Thamsanqa Khumalo were cautious up front.

The pair put on 23 for the first wicket before Erwee was caught behind for 15. His opening partner Khumalo, who was making his first class debut for the Dolphins, was out when he hit one to short cover for six.

He spent a lot of time in the middle, 45 deliveries, and looked measured following a nervous start.

Ackerman came in at the loss of the first wicket and was patient to start his innings as he and captain Khaya Zondo were in rescue mode with the total 26 for two.

The pair then started scoring freely and with fluency on their way to a partnership of 114 before the captain departed for 34.

It was from there that Ackerman accelerated his scoring rate, and with Sibz Makhanya having just departed for seven, the left-hander went to his hundred off 132 deliveries.

He was the next batsman to fall when he was bowled attempting the reverse sweep for 137.

ANA