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Cape Town - Titans coach Mark Boucher remains confident in their prospects ahead of their derby clash against the Highveld Lions at SuperSport Park in Centurion on Wednesday.
The defending champions were beaten by the Warriors last Friday for their second loss in succession, but they have managed to hold on to top spot.
However,
the competition is now at a crunch stage with just three match days remaining
and the Titans hold a slender one-point lead over the Warriors.
“It’s getting tight at the top there, but we remain in control of our own destiny,” Boucher said. “If we win our next two games, we should get a home final.
“So it is close, but that’s how T20 cricket is designed. We’re in a position where we don’t need to rely on anyone and the plan is to still go out there and secure a home final.”
Reflecting on the loss to the Warriors last Friday, Boucher insisted it was water under the bridge as he had swiftly moved on.
“I'm not looking too much into that defeat. But I thought it was a first stumble as a batting unit, so that was disappointing. Hopefully the guys can pick up now after a small rest and finish strongly heading into this week.”
The Titans have stuck with the same squad that has already served them so well this season, meaning there is no return for any of their Proteas, bar Tabraiz Shamsi, who did play the last game.
The Lions on the other hand welcome Temba Bavuma back for the Jukskei derby with Dwaine Pretorius are looking far better now in third position after three wins in a row.
“I'm very pleased how we’ve come back in the past few games,” their coach Geoffrey Toyana said.
The Titans won the first round meeting in a game that marked the start of a fine run of five straight wins and Toyana was hoping they would be able to get one back in the derby.
“They beat us in our own back yard and hopefully we can do the same to them,” he added. “Both teams will be under pressure because of the tightness on the log. But it will be a matter of whoever pitches up on the day.”
HEAD TO HEAD – Titans v Highveld Lions
Matches Played 24
Titans Win 12
Lions Win 12
