DURBAN - When veteran Morne van Wyk said he would be stepping aside for precocious talent Khaya Zondo to lead the team, there wasn’t so much surprise at the appointment, more at the bold move and timing of it all. But it seems fitting as Zondo’s captaincy has been bold and brash, helping the Dolphins to top of the One-Day Cup log after four fixtures.
With three wins from four games, the Dolphins have thrilled on their way to the top, and face the Warriors on Friday at St. Georges Park (2pm).
Already having dispatched the Titans, in the first match of the season, thanks to some fireworks from a record breaking Rob Frylinck, not much can scare the Dolphins. Frylinck caned an unbeaten 20-ball 54 to help the Dolphins chase down a total that seemed insurmountable, and as such, set the tone for the season to come.
Up next was the Lions, and again, seemingly from the jaws of defeat, the Dolphins, and that man Frylinck, helped the Durban-based team across the line.
The bulky all-rounder this time starring with the ball as he claimed three wickets in the 46th over to curtail the Lions’ chase.
Of course, a flame can’t burn forever as the Dolphins eventually found their match when they were downed by Cobras as even a ton by Van Wyk was not enough to see them across the line.
But their spark was soon ignited again as they struck back against the Knights in Bloemfontein with a spin masterclass, skitteling the home team for a paltry score before they chased it down with ample overs to spare - Vaughn van Jaarsveld the man who seemed to have more important things to do that evening, racing to 71 off just 47 balls.
The Dolphins have the firepower, but they now need to rein some consistency, that is if they are to lift the trophy.