The Dolphins brought the Eagles down to earth with a bump on Wednesday, when they beat them by 10 runs in their Standard Bank Cup match at Goodyear Park.
The Dolphins won the toss and batted first, scoring 218 for seven in their 45 overs. Doug Watson made 74, Dale Benkenstein 34 and Lance Klusener 32 not out.
The Eagles, chasing their seventh consecutive victory, were soon in trouble and at one stage were down and out on 40 for the loss of four wickets. The main wicket-takers were Klusener, who took two for 25, and Zahier Abrahim, who took three for 38.
The Dolphins appeared to be coasting to victory, but an unbeaten last-wicket stand of 58 by Cliff Deacon and Deon Kruis saw the visitors having to bowl the full 45 overs. Deacon made 57 and Kruis 17. The Eagles finished on 208 for nine.
Earlier, former great Allan Donald announced his retirement from all forms of cricket. Donald had been included in the squad, but withdrew because of a neck injury. However, he will continue his coaching involvement with the Eagles. — Sapa