THE Nashua Titans, fresh from winning the Standard Bank Pro20 title after an exciting victory over the Nashua Dolphins at Sahara Stadium Kingsmead on Friday night, will now spearhead Cricket South Africa’s challenge in the international Pro20 Champions League.

The Nashua Titans and the Nashua Dolphins are the two teams to represent Cricket South Africa against their rivals from England, India and Australia.

Friday night’s success made the Nashua Titans the most successful franchise in South Africa this summer with victories in both the limited overs competitions – the Standard Bank Pro20 as well as the MTN Domestic Championship.

It is the first time that the Nashua Titans have managed to win two major franchise titles in one season.

The other trophy on offer, the SuperSport Series four-day competition was won by the Gestetner Diamond Eagles.

Friday’s night triumph also reflected the value that the Proteas players bring to the franchises when available. AB de Villiers set up the Nashua Titans total with a superb innings with good support from Albie Morkel, then Morne Morkel struck an important blow in the middle of the innings and Dale Steyn was his normal devastating self at the death.

Domestic players to confirm their standing and potential included the two seam bowlers, Yusuf Abdullah for the Nashua Dolphins and Ethy Mhbalati for the Nashua Titans, and the Nashua Dolphins all-rounder, Daryn Smit, who nearly turned the game on its head with some intelligent fast scoring.

It took a brilliant catch from Gulam Bodi in the deep to remove him. Bodi also had a fine game for the Nashua Titans, contributing an important innings up front.

Gerald Majola, CEO of Cricket South Africa, congratulated the Nashua Titans on their success.

“On behalf of Cricket South Africa, I would like to congratulate the Nashua Titans on winning the Standard Bank Pro20 final.

“They showed excellent form and are worthy winners of a tournament that has captured the imagination of the South African public.

“We are confident that the two finalists will do extremely well in the Pro 20 League against the two top teams from England, India and Australia to be played in the UK in August this year.

“CSA would also like to extend its heart-felt thanks to Standard Bank for once again supporting South African cricket in the meaningful way and for bringing such wonderful cricket entertainment to millions of South Africans.