Betway SA20: Will Jacks Smashes 41 Balls Ton, Capitals Outgun Super Giants
England’s prolific all-rounder Will Jacks bludgeoned a blistering 101 off 42 balls to propel the Pretoria Capitals to a commanding victory over the Durban’s Super Giants in South Africa’s T20 competition on Thursday.
The 25-year-old all-rounder unleashed a maelstrom of nine sixes and eight fours, his strike rate clocking in at a staggering 240.48, as the Capitals posted a formidable 204-9 in their allotted 20 overs.
Jacks has been on fire at Centurion, blasting three consecutive half-centuries culminating in this magnificent ton that secured his team’s first win in the Betway SA20.
Jacks shared a rapid opening stand of 75 with fellow countryman Phil Salt (23) before showcasing his all-round prowess with two economical wickets (2-18) that helped restrict the Super Giants to 187-7 at Centurion Park.
He partnered seamlessly with Salt in the powerplay, racing to his half-century off just 23 balls. England pace bowler Reece Topley ended the partnership, but Jacks continued his rampage, reaching his ton off 41 balls – the second-fastest T20 century by an Englishman, one shy of David Willey’s 2015 record.
Topley remained the Super Giants’ bright spot, finishing with 3-34, but his efforts were overshadowed by Jacks’ brilliance who hit his countryman for two big sixes.
“It was a special knock,” Jacks said after the match. “The wicket was playing beautifully, and I just found my rhythm early on. It’s always nice to contribute with both bat and ball, and I’m happy we came away with the win.”
The Capitals’ total proved too much for the Super Giants, despite a valiant effort from their batsmen. Eight batters reached double figures, but none managed to convert their starts into a match-winning innings.
The victory keeps the Capitals alive in the Betway SA20 standings, while the Super Giants remain winless after two matches. Jacks’ performance adds to a growing reputation as a destructive T20 player, having previously impressed in various leagues around the world.
With his explosive hitting at the top of the order, Jacks has undoubtedly become a bright prospect for England. He was part of England’s white-ball tour of the West Indies last year and impressed everyone with his outstanding batting displays.
