Titans beat Auckland, inch closer to SF

Durban: Titans trounced Auckland Aces by 59 runs for their second straight win in the Champions League Twenty20 tournament at Kingsmead here on Wednesday. Jacques Rudolph (63), Henry Davids (36) and Farhaan Behardien (48 not out) propelled Titans to 172 for 4 before their bowlers dismissed Auckland for 113 in 18.1 overs. Speedsters Ethy Mbhalati (3 for 26) and Alfonso Thomas (3 for 18) starred with the ball.

It was Titans' second win after their victory against Perth Scorchers while Auckland won their first match against Kolkata Knight Riders.

Auckland kept on losing wickets at regular intervals and their fate was sealed when they lost six wickets at the score of 58 by the ninth over. Anaru Kitchen (23) and Andre Adams (30) were the only ones to make substantial contributions. Adams and Michael Bates (14 not out) were involved in an entertaining 45-run stand for the 10th wicket. But it came too late in the day for Auckland.

Titans trounced Auckland Aces by 59 runs for their second straight win in the Champions League Twenty20.

Earlier, Titans openers Davids and Rudolph set the tone for a big score, sharing 74 runs off 67 balls. Rudolph smashed seven fours in his 56-ball knock while Davids five. Behardien got into the act late in the innings, hammering three sixes and a four in his 23-ball knock.

Titans next play Knight Riders on October 21 while Auckland face Delhi Daredevils on October 19.

(For updates you can share with your friends, follow IBNLive on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and Pinterest)