The Pretoria Capitals and Joburg Super Kings are currently tied in their 2025/26 SA20 head-to-head series with one win apiece, following a dramatic group stage encounter where the Capitals successfully defended 143 to win by 21 runs. As of January 2026, the Pretoria Capitals have secured their place in the SA20 Season 4 grand final after defeating the Sunrisers Eastern Cape in Qualifier 1, while the Joburg Super Kings saw their campaign end in the Eliminator against the Paarl Royals.
This “Highveld Derby” remains the most anticipated rivalry in South African franchise cricket, pitting the clinical tactical approach of the Centurion-based Capitals against the resilient, star-studded roster of Johannesburg’s Super Kings. In this guide, you will find a deep dive into historical match statistics, tactical breakdowns of key players like Dewald Brevis and Leus du Plooy, and essential travel tips for visiting SuperSport Park and the Wanderers.
All-Time Head-to-Head Record
The historical record between these two Highveld giants is remarkably balanced, with both sides having traded blows since the tournament’s inception in 2023. Across eight competitive meetings in the SA20 league, the Pretoria Capitals and Joburg Super Kings have each secured four victories, making it one of the most unpredictable matchups in the competition.
In the 2025/26 season specifically, the Joburg Super Kings took the first encounter with a 22-run victory at Centurion on December 27, 2025. However, the Pretoria Capitals leveled the season score on January 17, 2026, pulling off a historic comeback at the Wanderers where they recovered from 7/5 to win by 21 runs.
2025/26 Season Match Results
The first clash of the current season took place at SuperSport Park, where JSK posted 168/6 and successfully restricted the Capitals to 146/9. Veteran contributions from Rilee Rossouw (48) and Wiaan Mulder (43) provided the backbone for the Super Kings’ successful defense in front of a sold-out Centurion crowd.
The return fixture on January 17, 2026, at “The Bullring” (Wanderers) provided one of the greatest spectacles in SA20 history. After being reduced to 7/5 by JSK’s seamers, a 103-run partnership between Dewald Brevis and Sherfane Rutherford propelled the Capitals to 143/6, a total they defended with clinical precision using the spin of Keshav Maharaj (3/15).
The Highveld Derby Intensity
The rivalry is often referred to as the “Highveld Derby” due to the close geographical proximity of Pretoria and Johannesburg. Both cities are situated on the Highveld plateau, where the high altitude (approximately 1,500m to 1,700m above sea level) allows the ball to travel further, leading to high-scoring encounters and aggressive batting styles.
Culturally, the match divides the northern provinces, with fans from Centurion and Johannesburg traveling the short 40-minute distance between the two stadiums. The atmosphere is characterized by brass bands, vibrant local “braai” culture in the stands, and a competitive edge that mirrors the traditional rivalry between the Blue Bulls and the Lions in rugby.
Pretoria Capitals Key Players
Dewald Brevis, often called “Baby AB,” has emerged as the standout performer for the Capitals in 2026, particularly after his match-winning 75 off 38 balls in Qualifier 1. His ability to clear the ropes against both pace and spin has made him the most feared batter in the Capitals’ top order this season.
On the bowling front, captain Keshav Maharaj has been instrumental in controlling the middle overs with his disciplined left-arm spin. He is supported by the raw pace of Anrich Nortje and the tactical intelligence of Lizaad Williams, who has been among the tournament’s leading wicket-takers.
Joburg Super Kings Key Players
Leus du Plooy became the engine of the JSK batting lineup in 2026, especially after regular captain Faf du Plessis was sidelined by injury. Du Plooy’s ability to manipulate the field and score at a strike rate of over 150 provided JSK with vital momentum during their late-season playoff push.
The bowling attack is led by the relentless Daniel Worrall and the youthful exuberance of Nandre Burger. Before their exit, the veteran leg-spin of Imran Tahir continued to defy age, providing JSK with a wicket-taking option that often broke dangerous partnerships during the powerplay and middle phases.
Iconic Venues: Centurion vs Wanderers
SuperSport Park, Centurion
Centurion is known for its “speed gun” pitches that favor fast bowlers early on before becoming a batter’s paradise as the sun sets. The grass embankments are a unique feature of the ground, allowing fans to enjoy the match in a more relaxed, picnic-style setting compared to traditional stadiums.
DP World Wanderers, Johannesburg
The Wanderers, or “The Bullring,” is world-famous for its intimidating atmosphere and high-scoring nature. The stadium features a large, bowl-like structure that amplifies the noise of the “Joburg Army” and has historically been the site of some of cricket’s most legendary limited-overs matches.
Tactical Breakdown: High-Altitude Cricket
Batting at altitude requires a distinct strategy, as the thin air offers less resistance to the ball, making six-hitting easier but also increasing the speed at which fast bowlers can operate. Both teams often load their lineups with “power hitters” to take advantage of the short boundaries at both Highveld venues.
Spinners like Maharaj and Tahir have to be more precise with their lengths at these venues, as any delivery that misses its mark is likely to be deposited into the stands. The “cross-seam” delivery is a popular tactic for the seamers at Centurion and Wanderers to extract uneven bounce from the hard, sun-baked surfaces.
Practical Information and Planning
Attending a Highveld Derby is a premier South African sporting experience, but it requires advance booking during the peak SA20 season.
- Tickets: Prices generally range from R60 to R250 ($3 to $13), making it accessible for families; tickets are available via the official SA20 website.
- Transportation: Use the Gautrain for easy access between Pretoria and Johannesburg; dedicated shuttle services often run from the stations to the stadiums on matchdays.
- Matchday Timing: Most weekday matches start at 5:30 PM, while weekend fixtures often feature a 1:30 PM or 3:30 PM start time.
- What to Expect: A high-energy “festival” atmosphere with live music, fan zones for children, and local food vendors serving biltong and boerewors rolls.
- Tips for Visitors: Apply sunscreen for afternoon matches and bring a jacket, as temperatures on the Highveld can drop significantly once the sun goes down.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who has won more games between Pretoria Capitals and JSK?
As of January 2026, the all-time head-to-head record is tied at 4-4 after eight competitive meetings in the SA20.
When is the next Pretoria Capitals vs JSK match?
With the 2025/26 league phase concluded, the next encounter will take place in the 2027 SA20 season, unless they meet in pre-season tournaments.
Where do the Pretoria Capitals play their home matches?
The Capitals are based at SuperSport Park in Centurion, known for its fast outfields and family-friendly grass embankments.
Who is the current captain of the Pretoria Capitals?
For the 2025/26 season, the team has been led by South African spin veteran Keshav Maharaj.
Is Faf du Plessis still playing for Joburg Super Kings?
Faf du Plessis remains the club’s icon and regular captain, though he missed the latter part of the 2025/26 season due to a shoulder injury.
What is the highest score in this fixture?
The highest team total in this rivalry occurred in Season 1, where the Capitals posted over 200 runs at Centurion.
Which team won the 2025/26 Highveld Derby at the Wanderers?
The Pretoria Capitals won the most recent meeting at the Wanderers on January 17, 2026, by 21 runs.
Are the Pretoria Capitals in the 2026 Final?
Yes, the Pretoria Capitals qualified for the SA20 2026 Grand Final at Newlands after winning Qualifier 1.
What is the capacity of the Wanderers Stadium?
The DP World Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg can host approximately 34,000 spectators.
Can I take my own food into the stadium?
Generally, fans are allowed to bring picnic baskets into Centurion, but restrictions are tighter at the Wanderers; always check the specific “Terms of Entry” for each venue.
Final Thoughts
The rivalry between the Pretoria Capitals and Joburg Super Kings has solidified its status as the most competitive and unpredictable fixture in the SA20 league. As of the 2025/26 season, the “Highveld Derby” remains perfectly balanced, with both teams continuing to trade historic victories on each other’s home turf. The Capitals’ sensational comeback from 7/5 to win by 21 runs at the Wanderers in January 2026 will go down as one of the greatest moments in franchise cricket history, further cementing the intensity of this regional clash.
Looking forward to Season 5 and beyond, the battle for Highveld supremacy shows no signs of cooling down. With world-class facilities at SuperSport Park and the Wanderers, and a pipeline of talent like Dewald Brevis and Nandre Burger, fans can expect many more high-altitude, high-stakes encounters that define the spirit of South African T20 cricket.
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