Half centuries from Reeza Hendricks and Michael Erlank helped the VKB Knights complete a comprehensive 10-wicket Sunfoil Series win over the bizhub Highveld Lions on the final afternoon of their clash in Johannesburg on Sunday.
Chasing a low target of just 115, the pair reached the mark in 32.4 overs with Hendricks ending unbeaten on 58 (112 balls, 7 fours, 2 sixes) and Erlank striking 55 (97 balls, 11 fours).
Their performance ensured the Knights forced themselves right back into the title hunt after the log-leading Unlimited Titans could only draw their game against the Sunfoil Dolphins in Durban.
The Pretoria-based side still head the table with 93.08 points, followed by the Lions (86.16) and the Central Franchise on 82.24.
The Knights also had their bowlers to thank on Sunday after they claimed the final five home wickets for 90 and fairly quickly on the final morning to raise their hopes.
Proteas batsman Temba Bavuma, on 20 overnight, barely lasted five overs without adding to his overnight total, before he was dismissed by Shadley van Schalkwyk (2/52).
Dwaine Pretorius (29) was out before him having added five to his day three score and was sent on his way by Duanne Olivier, the pick of the bowlers with 4/63. The Knights fast bowler ended with seven wickets in the match.
Once the two overnight men fell, the door was opened for the Central Franchise as they had the Lions all out for 218 in 68.4 overs. The match was effectively a three-day contest after day one at the Bidvest Wanderers Stadium was abandoned due to rain and a wet outfield.