Centurions Hamza, Hermann announce their return to domestic cricket with a bang

Batters Zubayr Hamza and Jordan Hermann have returned to domestic cricket from national duty with impressive knocks in the CSA Four-Day Series.

The two were recently in India, representing South Africa 'A' in a challenging two-match unofficial Test series against a strong India 'A'. Over the past two years, CSA has worked to revive the 'A' team programme as a bridge between domestic cricket and the international stage.

Hamza and Hermann have been regulars, touring the West Indies earlier this year and participating in the inbound New Zealand 'A' tour.

Hamza was also part of the Proteas Test squad for the tours to Pakistan and India, although he did not feature in any of the four matches played in the subcontinent.

On Wednesday, during the fifth round of the ongoing CSA Four-Day Series, both players showcased the fruits of their development, each scoring a century for their respective teams, the Lions and the Warriors.

Hamza crafted a classy 115 as the Lions posted 283/6 in the opening two days of their rain-affected clash against Boland at The Bullring in Johannesburg. Meanwhile, left-handed opening batter Hermann contributed a dominant 134, helping the Warriors secure a 117-run lead at the close of Day Two against the North West Dragons at the JB Marks Oval in Potchefstroom.

Warriors bowler Matthew Boast, who has enjoyed a strong start to his career with the Gqeberha-based side, continued his excellent form, claiming another five-wicket haul this season. The 22-year-old registered figures of 5/42, putting the Warriors in a commanding position heading into Day Three.

Elsewhere, the Dolphins fought back in their match against the Titans. After being bowled out for 125 in their first innings, the Dolphins responded with the ball, dismissing the hosts for 195 before bad light halted play on Day Two.

In Pietermaritzburg, Western Province spinner Kyle Simmonds also made a significant impact, taking a five-wicket haul against the Tuskers. The 31-year-old secured his 12th First-Class career five-wicket haul, helping his side build a 183-run lead at the Pietermaritzburg Oval.