 First @-@ class cricket was first played in South Africa in the previous 1888 – 89 season , when Robert Warton managed a side which toured the country , playing against representative teams from each of the provinces , and two matches against South Africa , which were later adjudged to have Test cricket status . During that tour , Donald Currie donated the Currie Cup to be awarded to the team which performed best against the touring side ; which was judged to be Kimberley . In other first @-@ class matches during the 1889 – 90 season , Kimberley faced Natal twice , winning both matches . Transvaal did not play any first @-@ class cricket prior to their Currie Cup contest with Kimberley . 
