MI Cape Town Clinch Maiden SA20 Title, End Sunrisers Eastern Cape’s Winning Streak
MI Cape Town (MICT) created history in the SA20 2025 season by lifting their first-ever title after a dominant victory over two-time defending champions Sunrisers Eastern Cape (SEC) in the final. In a stunning reversal of fortunes from their past two seasons, where they finished at the bottom, the Cape Town-based franchise emerged as the strongest team this time, topping the table and clinching the championship with a 76-run win in Johannesburg on Saturday, February 9.
A Redemption Story for MI Cape Town
After struggling in the first two editions of SA20, MI Cape Town underwent a major transformation in 2025. Strategic player acquisitions and an overall team revamp played a crucial role in their championship-winning campaign. The inclusion of experienced batter Reeza Hendricks, the recruitment of star pacer Trent Boult from the ILT20, and the wildcard pick of Corbin Bosch significantly strengthened the squad.
This victory also marked a historic achievement for the Mumbai Indians (MI) franchise globally. With this triumph, the MI Universe now boasts a title in every T20 league they have participated in worldwide, bringing their total trophy count to 11 across different competitions.
Final Showdown: MICT’s Batting Firepower
Batting first after winning the toss, MI Cape Town put up a formidable total of 181/8 in 20 overs. Although they lost a couple of wickets early in the powerplay, the middle-order batters ensured that the momentum remained intact. Young batting sensation Dewald Brevis, Connor Esterhuizen, and George Linde played crucial knocks, propelling MICT to a competitive total.
Brevis, in particular, had an outstanding personal campaign, capping it off with another blistering innings in the final. His aggressive stroke play in the latter half of the innings proved to be a game-changer for his side.
Sunrisers’ Batting Collapse and Boult’s Masterclass
Chasing 182, Sunrisers Eastern Cape needed a solid start, but their hopes took a hit as they lost key wickets within the powerplay. Tom Abell and Tony de Zorzi, who were instrumental in the second qualifier, tried to rescue the innings, but the rising required run rate put immense pressure on the batting lineup.
Once both Abell and de Zorzi were dismissed in quick succession, the Sunrisers’ collapse was imminent. Trent Boult, Rashid Khan, and Kagiso Rabada took control of the game in the second half of the innings. Boult delivered a sensational spell, conceding only 9 runs in his 4 overs while taking 2 crucial wickets, earning him the Player of the Match award.
With the Sunrisers bowled out for just 105 in 18.4 overs, MI Cape Town secured a massive 76-run victory, bringing an emphatic end to Sunrisers Eastern Cape’s dominance in the tournament.
Boult’s Historic Feat and Player of the Series Recognition
Trent Boult became the first player in history to win titles with all four MI men’s teams – Mumbai Indians, MI Cape Town, MI Emirates, and MI New York – solidifying his legacy as one of the most impactful T20 bowlers.
Meanwhile, South African all-rounder Marco Jansen was named the Player of the Series for his outstanding performances throughout the tournament.
Final Match Summary:
MI Cape Town (MICT): 181/8 (20 overs)
Sunrisers Eastern Cape (SEC): 105 all out (18.4 overs)
Result: MI Cape Town won by 76 runs
- Player of the Match: Trent Boult (2/9 in 4 overs)
- Player of the Series: Marco Jansen
MI Cape Town’s journey from back-to-back bottom finishes to SA20 champions is a testament to their resilience, strategic planning, and execution. With a title now in their hands, they have firmly established themselves as a force to reckon with in the SA20 league, and fans can expect them to continue their dominance in future seasons.
