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Bloemfontein - The Knights' attempts to qualify for the domestic T20 cricket playoffs through the back door received a cruel blow on Tuesday when in-form batsman Pite van Biljon broke his hand during practice.
Van Biljon scored 61 not out off just 41 balls in Sunday's seven-wicket win over the Titans, but will now miss Wednesday's clash with the Warriors at the Diamond Oval, in Kimberley, and could be out for the remainder of the season.
"He got one that lifted in the nets and broke his hand, so I've had to revisit the whole plan for Wednesday and make some changes," said Knights' coach Sarel Cilliers.
"He's a guy who's struck form. so it's unfortunate for us and unfortunate for him."
Rudi Second has been drafted into the squad for Wednesday in Van Biljon's place, with the Knights knowing that every game from here is a must-win if they are to make it into the playoffs.
Meanwhile, the Warriors are sitting in second place, having profited from the fact that both teams in a tie earn three points.
Remarkably, the Warriors tied both of their games at the weekend, with their death bowling holding off the opposition to grab crucial points.
"On both occasions you probably would have said it was a batsman's game," said Warriors' coach Piet Botha.
"In the one they needed 20 off 18 balls, and the other was about 28 off 24 at one stage, so the fact that we've been able to defend, that is very pleasing."
Having settled on a solid combination, the Warriors are likely to field an unchanged side in Kimberley on Wednesday.
