The SA20 2026 playoffs begin with a blockbuster Qualifier 1 as the league-toppers, Sunrisers Eastern Cape, face the second-placed Pretoria Capitals at Kingsmead, Durban. The two-time champion Sunrisers, undefeated at this venue, aim to secure a direct berth in the final. The Capitals, riding a wave of resilient performances, look to cause an upset. With the Sunrisers having won both league-stage encounters this season, this high-stakes knockout promises intense tactical warfare under the Durban lights.
Sunrisers Eastern Cape vs Pretoria Capitals Win Probability
SEC vs PC Batting Tips
Sunrisers Eastern Cape vs Pretoria Capitals, Qualifier 1 Match Details
| Match | SA20 2025-26, Match Qualifier 1 |
| Date | Wednesday, 21 January 2026 |
| Time | 09:00 PM IST | 03:30 PM LOCAL |
| Venue | Hollywoodbets Kingsmead Stadium, Durban |
| Live Streaming (TV) | Star Sports Network |
| Live Streaming (Mobile) | JioHotstar |
SEC vs PC Match Prediction & Analysis (Who Will Win?)
The Sunrisers Eastern Cape are favoured to win and advance directly to the final. This prediction is based on a trifecta of advantages: historical dominance, current form, and squad balance. The Sunrisers are undefeated at Kingsmead in SA20 history and have beaten the Capitals comfortably in both meetings this season. Their batting lineup is deeper and more consistent, with four players scoring over 200 runs. Furthermore, their bowling attack has been bolstered by the arrival of Chris Green, adding a new dimension. While the Capitals have shown incredible fight, notably recovering from 7/5 in their last game, the Sunrisers’ proven record in big matches and at this specific venue gives them a clear edge. Prediction: Sunrisers Eastern Cape to win Qualifier 1.
SEC vs PC Head to Head (Over-all)
| Total Matches | 09 |
| SEC Won | 05 |
| PC Won | 04 |
| Draw/No Result | 00 |
SEC vs PC Teams Preview (Top Players to Watch)
Sunrisers Eastern Cape
The table-toppers and two-time champions are a well-oiled machine. Their batting is prolific, led by Quinton de Kock (328 runs) and supported by multiple consistent contributors. Their bowling attack has been strengthened mid-tournament, with Chris Green and James Coles providing crucial spin options alongside the pace of Anrich Nortje (14 wickets). They are undefeated at Kingsmead.
SEC Probable Playing XI-
Quinton de Kock (WK), Jonny Bairstow, Matthew Breetzke, Jordan Hermann, Tristan Stubbs (C), Marco Jansen, Chris Green, Senuran Muthusamy, James Coles, Anrich Nortje, Adam Milne.
Top Player to Watch- Quinton de Kock & Chris Green.
Pretoria Capitals
The Capitals are the comeback kings, having turned their season around after a poor start. Their middle order, featuring the explosive Sherfane Rutherford (317 runs) and the mature Dewald Brevis, has rescued them repeatedly. Their bowling is a collective effort, led superbly by captain Keshav Maharaj. They thrive under pressure but need their top order to fire.
PC Probable Playing XI-
Shai Hope (WK), Bryce Parsons, Connor Esterhuizen, Dewald Brevis, Roston Chase, Andre Russell, Sherfane Rutherford, Keshav Maharaj (C), Lizaad Williams, Lungi Ngidi, Gideon Peters.
Top Player to Watch- Sherfane Rutherford & Lizaad Williams.
SEC vs PC Weather & Pitch Report
The pitch at Kingsmead is generally batting-friendly with good carry, where first-innings scores have averaged around 190 recently. However, some rain before the match could make the surface slightly sticky, bringing spinners into the game and making a score of around 180 par.
The weather in Durban is expected to be partly sunny with a slight (20%) chance of rain. Temperatures will be around 24°C with moderate winds. Conditions should allow for a full match.
SEC vs PC Toss Prediction
Both teams have won most of their matches this season while batting first. Given the potential for a sticky surface due to rain and the high-stakes nature of a playoff, the captain winning the toss is likely to choose to bat first and set a target.
SEC vs PC Dream11 Team
- Wicket-keeper: Quinton de Kock, Shai Hope
- Batters: Jonny Bairstow, Matthew Breetzke, Dewald Brevis
- All-rounders: Marco Jansen, Sherfane Rutherford, Chris Green
- Bowlers: Anrich Nortje, Keshav Maharaj, Lizaad Williams
Pro Tip: Dream11 currently offers users from outside India the ability to create teams for free. In a playoff, trust the in-form players and those with big-match temperament. Given the potential for spin, consider the all-round spin options. Always finalize your Dream11 team after the official playing XIs are announced, typically 30 minutes before the match starts (around 08:30 PM IST).
Disclaimer: This match prediction is based on analysis of recent form, head-to-head records, and pitch conditions. It is for entertainment purposes only. We do not endorse or engage in any illegal betting activities. Users, especially from India, must comply with all local laws, including regulations under the new Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025.
