CSA FourDay Series Division Two 2025-26: Match Preview – Mpumalanga Rhinos vs Knights (29 January 2026)

Venue: Uplands College, White River, Mpumalanga
Date & Time: 29 January 2026, 07:00 GMT
Format: First-Class (TEST)

Match Context

As the CSA FourDay Series Division Two 2025-26 enters its final week, the clash between Mpumalanga Rhinos and Knights promises to be a crucial encounter in the race for promotion and form.

The match is set to take place at the Uplands College Ground in White River, a venue known for producing helpful pitches that assist spinners, especially in the later stages of the game. This could prove to be a decisive factor, as both teams look to secure a vital win in the final round of fixtures.

Team Form and Head-to-Head

Mpumalanga Rhinos

The Mpumalanga Rhinos have had a mixed season in the 2025-26 campaign. Their standout performance came in early October, when they defeated the Northern Cape by a massive margin of 258 runs at the Diamond Oval, Kimberley. However, they have struggled to maintain consistency, with a draw against the Eastern Storm in late December and a rain-affected abandoned match against Limpopo in early January.

In their most recent match, the Rhinos faced the Border in East London and the game ended in a draw. That result leaves them with just one win and four draws from their seven matches, placing them in a mid-table position. A win here would be crucial for them to move up the table and boost their promotion prospects.

Knights

The Knights, on the other hand, have been in better form. They began the season with a strong win against the Eastern Storm in early October and followed it up with a dominant innings-and-99-run victory over Limpopo at the Mangaung Oval. In recent matches, they have also defeated South Western Districts and Border in the first half of January, which has seen them climb the table.

Their last match was a hard-fought win over Border, where they secured a victory by 88 runs. This win has given the Knights confidence, and they will be looking to carry that momentum into the final match of the season.

Key Players to Watch

• Mpumalanga Rhinos:

  • Wihan Lubbe – The Rhinos’ all-rounder has been instrumental in both bat and ball, offering balance and resilience.
  • Mthokozisi Ndhlovu – A consistent wicket-taker with the ball, especially in the middle overs.
  • Rudi Second – A top-order batsman who can anchor the innings and build partnerships.

• Knights:

  • David Wiese – The experienced all-rounder brings firepower with the bat and useful support with the ball.
  • Dale Steyn (if fit) – A world-class fast bowler who can trouble even the best batsmen with his pace and movement.
  • Dean Elgar – A seasoned opener who has the ability to score big runs and stabilize the innings.

Pitch and Conditions

The Uplands College pitch tends to offer a fair contest between bat and ball in the early stages, but as the game progresses, the surface becomes more conducive to spin. This could be a decisive factor if the match extends into the final day. The weather in January is typically warm with a slight chance of rain, so the teams may need to keep an eye on the forecast.

Match Prediction

This match is expected to be a closely contested affair. The Knights come into the match in better form, having won their last two matches, and they have the experience and firepower to push for a result. However, the Mpumalanga Rhinos, playing at home and with a pitch that could favor spin, have the opportunity to secure a surprise win.

If the Knights can bat first and post a challenging total, they could be in a strong position. Conversely, if the Rhinos manage to restrict the Knights to a modest score and then chase effectively, they could clinch a vital win.

Conclusion

The Mpumalanga Rhinos vs Knights clash on 29 January 2026 is a must-watch encounter as both teams aim to end the season on a high. With the Knights in better form and the Rhinos having the advantage of home conditions, this promises to be a thrilling contest with significant implications for the final standings.

Cricket fans can expect a test of skill, strategy, and resilience in what could be one of the most decisive matches of the CSA FourDay Series Division Two 2025-26.
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