The Highveld Lions had their final practice on Thursday afternoon, ahead of what could be the biggest cricket match many of them will ever play - the opening match of the Champions League Twenty20 (CLT20) at the Wanderers on Friday evening.

"We have been emphasising that there is no pressure on them and that they must just go out and play their natural game," said coach Dave Nosworthy. "But there is no chance that they will be too laid back tomorrow and they certainly won't need any motivation to do their best. A big match in front of 30 000 spectators at the Bull Ring is enough to get anyone's adrenalin pumping, and they will all be wanting to perform well on the international stage."