In the realm of cricket, where greatness is measured by trophies and heroes are forged on the pitch, Titans Cricket stands tall as a colossus of dominance, revered across the globe. In a span of two decades, Titans Cricket has etched its name in history, securing a remarkable 20 trophies from 2004/2005 to 2023/2024, surpassing all other test-playing nations worldwide. Auckland Cricket (New Zealand) comes closest with 15 trophies in the same period, trailing the Titans by a significant five championships.
Reflecting on this phenomenal achievement, Titans Cricket CEO, Dr. Jacques Faul, spoke with pride about the team's journey. "Being the most decorated cricket team globally over the past 20 years speaks volumes about the dedication and talent within Titans Cricket. Our pursuit of excellence propels us to constantly strive for victory, to bring home trophies, and to represent our team with pride on the international stage," remarked Dr. Faul.
From the seasons of 2004/05 to 2013/14, Titans secured a total of 10 trophies, including four 4-Day titles, three CSA One Day Cup triumphs, and three T20 Challenge victories. Building on this foundation, the subsequent years from 2014/15 to 2023/24 witnessed Titans Cricket clinching another 10 trophies, comprising three 4-Day championships, three CSA One Day Cup conquests, and four T20 Challenge victories. Titans' 7 T20 titles in 20 years make them the team with the most twenty-twenty trophies globally, with Sailkot Stallions following closely with 6 trophies and Mumbai Indians with 5 trophies.
Titans Cricket has been a nurturing ground for cricketing legends and emerging talents alike. From the illustrious careers of veterans like Quinton De Kock, Chris Morris, Faf du Plessis, AB de Villiers, Dale Steyn, Albie and Morne Morkel, to the rise of promising young stars like Donovan Ferreira and Dewald Brevis, Titans has seen it all. These players have shared the field with current stars including Heinrich Klaasen, Lung Ngidi, and Aiden Markram, among others. "Legends are not merely born; they are shaped and polished through dedication and opportunity," remarked Dr. Faul. "At Titans, we take immense pride in our role in shaping the careers of cricketing icons and providing a platform for emerging talents to shine. Our legacy is not just in trophies but in the consistent impact we have on the sport globally."
Faul also acknowledged the competitive spirit of their Johannesburg-based neighbors, The DP World Lions, who have clinched an impressive 10 trophies over the past decade. Together, Titans and Lions have secured a remarkable 20 out of 30 trophies during this period. Specifically, from the 2004/5 season to 2013/14, both the Titans and Cobras clinched 10 trophies each, once more, the combined efforts of the two teams resulted in them securing 20 out of the 30 available trophies.
Looking ahead, The Sky Blues remain steadfast in their pursuit of excellence, determined to maintain their status as champions in all endeavors while dominating on the field. With a blend of experience and youth, a culture of determination, and a global vision, Titans march forward, poised to leave an indelible mark on the world stage.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
The Betway SA20 roared back for its second season, leaving cricket fans breathless and hungry for more! Not only did Sunrisers Eastern Cape snatch the title in a sold-out Newlands final, but the entire season was a record-breaking extravaganza.
Lights, Camera, Action!
Viewership went ballistic! Global audiences surged by 21%, with broadcasters in India, UK, US, and Australia tuning in for the electrifying action. Locally, SuperSport witnessed a 24% viewership jump, with a surprising (and awesome!) 46% being female viewers.
Social Media Frenzy
The love for Betway SA20 exploded online! The league's social media following doubled, while video views, website visits, and fan interactions rocketed by over 100%. The final match itself saw a mind-blowing 882% increase in social media buzz compared to Season 1.
Cricket Like You've Never Seen Before!
From Will Jacks' jaw-dropping 41-ball century to Heinrich Klaasen's explosive batting that earned him Player of the Season honors, the cricket was pure fire. Fans witnessed 4 centuries, 49 half-centuries, and a whopping 454 sixes launched into the stands! Bowlers weren't to be outdone either, with 3 stunning 5-wicket hauls.
The Stands Were Roaring!
The electric atmosphere at the stadiums mirrored the action on the field. Ten matches were completely sold out, and a whopping 70% of all tickets were snapped up throughout the season. A fan survey revealed that 96% found the stadium experience "very enjoyable," proving Betway SA20 is a must-see event.
Global Recognition
The league's success went beyond borders. Media coverage generated a PR value of a staggering R4 billion, reaching a mind-boggling 75.5 billion people worldwide. Even in South Africa, non-traditional news outlets jumped on the bandwagon, further amplifying the league's reach.
More Than Just Cricket
Betway SA20 wasn't just about sixes and wickets. The tournament remained committed to social good, raising R900,000 for the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation South Africa.
A Season to Remember
League Commissioner Graeme Smith summed it up perfectly: "We are incredibly proud of Season 2. The growth in viewership, following, engagement, and attendance showcases the immense interest in Betway SA20. We can't wait to do it all again next year – bigger and better!"
Mark your calendars, cricket fans! Betway SA20 is here to stay, promising another season of record-breaking cricket, electrifying crowds, and unforgettable moments.
The Betway SA20 roared back for its second season, leaving cricket fans breathless and hungry for more! Not only did Sunrisers Eastern Cape snatch the title in a sold-out Newlands final, but the entire season was a record-breaking extravaganza.
Lights, Camera, Action!
Viewership went ballistic! Global audiences surged by 21%, with broadcasters in India, UK, US, and Australia tuning in for the electrifying action. Locally, SuperSport witnessed a 24% viewership jump, with a surprising (and awesome!) 46% being female viewers.
Social Media Frenzy
The love for Betway SA20 exploded online! The league's social media following doubled, while video views, website visits, and fan interactions rocketed by over 100%. The final match itself saw a mind-blowing 882% increase in social media buzz compared to Season 1.
Cricket Like You've Never Seen Before!
From Will Jacks' jaw-dropping 41-ball century to Heinrich Klaasen's explosive batting that earned him Player of the Season honors, the cricket was pure fire. Fans witnessed 4 centuries, 49 half-centuries, and a whopping 454 sixes launched into the stands! Bowlers weren't to be outdone either, with 3 stunning 5-wicket hauls.
The Stands Were Roaring!
The electric atmosphere at the stadiums mirrored the action on the field. Ten matches were completely sold out, and a whopping 70% of all tickets were snapped up throughout the season. A fan survey revealed that 96% found the stadium experience "very enjoyable," proving Betway SA20 is a must-see event.
Global Recognition
The league's success went beyond borders. Media coverage generated a PR value of a staggering R4 billion, reaching a mind-boggling 75.5 billion people worldwide. Even in South Africa, non-traditional news outlets jumped on the bandwagon, further amplifying the league's reach.
More Than Just Cricket
Betway SA20 wasn't just about sixes and wickets. The tournament remained committed to social good, raising R900,000 for the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation South Africa.
A Season to Remember
League Commissioner Graeme Smith summed it up perfectly: "We are incredibly proud of Season 2. The growth in viewership, following, engagement, and attendance showcases the immense interest in Betway SA20. We can't wait to do it all again next year – bigger and better!"
Mark your calendars, cricket fans! Betway SA20 is here to stay, promising another season of record-breaking cricket, electrifying crowds, and unforgettable moments.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
The 17th Annual South African Sport Awards, a celebration of sporting excellence, pulsated Sun City with vibrant energy on Sunday night. This year's ceremony, themed "Celebrating 30 years of freedom through sporting excellence," transcended mere competition, highlighting the profound role sport plays in building a strong, unified South Africa.
The Springboks reigned supreme, showcasing the power of teamwork and dedication. Siya Kolisi, the inspirational captain whose leadership extends far beyond the field, secured both the Sport Star of the Year and the People's Choice Award. The roar of the crowd echoed Kolisi's immense influence, not just on the team's recent World Cup victory but on the nation's spirit.
The Springbok dominance continued with Jacques Nienaber, the mastermind coach, taking home Coach of the Year. The unmovable force in the pack, Eben Etzebeth, won Sportsman of the Year, while the exciting newcomer, Manie Libbok, secured the Newcomer of the Year award. After completing the green and gold sweep, the South African Rugby Union won both National Federation of the Year and Administrator of the Year, with Mark Alexander receiving the latter.
However, the evening wasn't solely about the current golden generation. The awards beautifully incorporated South Africa's rich sporting history. Legendary figures like Makhaya Ntini, Siphiwe Tshabalala, Brian Mitchell, and Cassius Baloyi took center stage, announcing awards and inspiring the next generation with their iconic journeys. Their presence served as a powerful reminder of the enduring legacy of South African athletes and the unifying power of sport.
With the 2024 Olympic Games and Cricket World Cup looming large on the horizon, the awards ceremony served as a rallying cry. The dedication of athletes across all disciplines promises an exciting future as South African sport continues its upward trajectory. The 17th SA Sport Awards were a celebration of sporting excellence but, more importantly, a testament to the unifying power of sport in building a nation on the cusp of even greater victory.
Full list of winners:
Administrator of the Year: Mark Alexander (SA Rugby Union)
Sportsman of the Year: Eben Etzebeth (Springboks)
Sportsman of the Year With a Disability: Mpumelelo Mhlongo (South African Sport Association for the Physically Disabled)
Sportswoman of the Year: Kirsten Neuschäfer (Sailing South Africa)
Sportswoman of the Year with a Disability: Simone Kruger (South African Sport Association for the Physically Disabled, Para Athletics)
Team of the Year: Springboks
Newcomer of the Year: Manie Libbok (Springboks)
Coach of the Year: Jacques Nienaber (Springboks)
Volunteer of the Year: Rebecca Ntsanwisi (Vakhegula Vakhegula)
Indigenous Games Team of the Year: Diketo Gauteng
National Federation of the Year: South African Rugby Union
Recreation Body of the Year: Amandla Social Enterprises (WC)
Sport Photo or Visual Journalist of the Year: Samuel Shivambu
Sport Journalist of the Year: Khanyiso Tshwaku
Sport Star of the Year: Siya Kolisi (Springbok captain)
People’s Choice of the Year: Siya Kolisi (Springbok captain)
School team of the Year: Hoër Landbouskool Oakdale – tug of war 560kg junior men’s team
Developing School Team of the Year: Hlabi Secondary School – netball U-19 team
Technical Official of the Year: Sean Rapaport (South African Hockey Association).
(Photo: OJ Koloti / Gallo Images)
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
Cricket enthusiasts, mark your calendars! Cricket South Africa (CSA) has just unveiled a thrilling schedule for the upcoming 2024/25 international home season.
In a riveting series of matches, the Proteas Men will face off against Sri Lanka in two Tests, followed by a comprehensive tour against Pakistan spanning all formats. Meanwhile, the Proteas Women will host England for a multi-format tour, promising fans an action-packed summer of cricket.
The season will kick off with a high-octane clash between South Africa ‘A’ and Sri Lanka ‘A’. The tour will feature three 50-over matches followed by two four-day encounters, igniting the cricketing spirit from 31 August to 18 September.
For the Proteas Men, the battlegrounds are set. The first Test against Sri Lanka will take place at the iconic Hollywoodbets Kingsmead Stadium in Durban, followed by a showdown at Dafabet St George’s Park in Gqeberha.
Simultaneously, the Proteas Women will take on England in a series of T20 Internationals and One-Day Internationals across various venues, culminating in a historic Test match at Mangaung Oval in Bloemfontein.
December will see the action intensify as Aiden Markram’s T20I squad locks horns with Pakistan, followed by an ODI series led by Temba Bavuma, including the ever-popular Pink Day fixture at DP World Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg.
The season will draw to a dramatic close with a thrilling Test series against Pakistan, featuring matches at SuperSport Park in Centurion and World Sports Betting Newlands Cricket Ground in Cape Town, promising riveting encounters to end the season on a high note.
Tickets for these electrifying matches go on sale on 19 August, with CSA CEO Pholetsi Moseki expressing anticipation for the upcoming season, highlighting the camaraderie and global appeal of cricket that these fixtures epitomize.
Prepare for a summer of cricket like never before as South Africa gears up to host some of the finest teams in the cricketing world, promising unforgettable moments for players and fans alike.
The full fixtures are listed below.
South Africa ‘A’ Tour against Sri Lanka ‘A’
One-Day Matches
Saturday, 31 August
South Africa A vs Sri Lanka A - JB Marks Oval, Potchefstroom
Monday, 02 September
South Africa A vs Sri Lanka A - JB Marks Oval, Potchefstroom
Wednesday, 04 September
South Africa A vs Sri Lanka A - JB Marks Oval, Potchefstroom
Four-Day Matches
08 - 11 September
South Africa A vs Sri Lanka A - Kimberley Oval, Kimberley
15 - 18 September
South Africa A vs Sri Lanka A - Willowmoore Park, Benoni
Proteas Men’s Inbound Tour against Sri Lanka
Test Series
27 November - 01 December at 09:30
South Africa vs Sri Lanka – Hollywoodbets Kingsmead Stadium, Durban
05 - 09 December at 10:30
South Africa vs Sri Lanka – Dafabet St George’s Park, Gqeberha
Proteas Men Inbound Tour against Pakistan
KFC T20I Series
Tuesday, 10 December at 18:00
South Africa vs Pakistan - Hollywoodbets Kingsmead Stadium, Durban
Friday, 13 December at 18:00
South Africa vs Pakistan - SuperSport Park, Centurion
Saturday, 14 December at 18:00
South Africa vs Pakistan - DP World Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg
ODI Series
Tuesday, 17 December at 14:00
South Africa vs Pakistan - Boland Park, Paarl
Thursday, 19 December at 14:00
South Africa vs Pakistan - World Sports Betting Newlands Cricket Ground, Cape Town
Sunday, 22 December at 14:00 – Pink Day
South Africa vs Pakistan - DP World Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg
Test Series
26 - 30 December at 10:00
South Africa vs Pakistan - SuperSport Park, Centurion
03 - 07 January at 10:30
South Africa vs Pakistan - World Sports Betting Newlands Cricket Ground, Cape Town
Proteas Women Inbound Tour against England
T20I Series
Sunday, 24 November at 14:00
South Africa vs England - Buffalo Park Cricket Stadium, East London
Wednesday, 27 November at 18:00
South Africa vs England - Willowmoore Park, Benoni
Saturday, 30 November at 18:00
South Africa vs England - SuperSport Park, Centurion
ODI Series
Wednesday, 04 December at 14:00
South Africa vs England - Kimberley Oval, Kimberley
Sunday, 08 December at 10:00 – Black Day
South Africa vs England – Hollywoodbets Kingsmead Stadium, Durban
Wednesday, 11 December at 14:00
South Africa vs England – JB Marks Oval, Potchefstroom
Test
15 – 18 December at 10:30
South Africa vs England - Mangaung Oval, Bloemfontein
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
In a triumphant display of resilience and skill, the DP World Lions clinched the CSA T20 Challenge trophy with a resounding seven-wicket victory over the Dolphins in Johannesburg on Sunday. Captain Bjorn Fortuin, beaming with pride, hailed his team's comeback, emphasizing the valuable lessons learned from past setbacks.
While the Lions ultimately triumphed comfortably, the path to victory was strewn with challenges. The Dolphins mounted a formidable total of 165 for eight, with the Lions grappling with three early wickets during their chase. Yet, Fortuin, supported by Codi Yusuf's stellar bowling performance, spearheaded a remarkable turnaround.
Reeza Hendricks and Wiaan Mulder emerged as the heroes of the Lions' innings, forging an unbeaten partnership of 85 runs off just 48 balls. Hendricks displayed masterful batting, anchoring the innings with a splendid 73 not out, while Mulder blazed his way to 55 not out off a mere 26 balls, igniting the Lions' charge to victory.
Reflecting on the team's collective effort, Fortuin commended the blend of youth and experience in the squad, highlighting the seamless integration of emerging talents with established players. He lauded the Lions' batting depth, expressing confidence in their ability to chase down any target set by the opposition.
Hendricks emphasized the importance of batting depth and partnership resilience, crediting their strategy of building a solid foundation early on. He underscored the significance of maintaining wickets in hand, particularly at the DP World Wanderers Stadium, where late-innings acceleration can be decisive.
Yusuf's pivotal role in the final over, dismissing set batsmen Jason Smith and Eathan Bosch while maintaining impressive economy, earned him praise from Fortuin, who hailed his potential for both white-ball and longer formats.
Fortuin himself capped off a stellar season, finishing as the second most economical bowler in the competition, closely trailing Imraan Manack of Boland. Ryan Rickelton and Reeza Hendricks emerged as standout batsmen, while Nqaba Peter showcased his bowling prowess despite a challenging final over.
As the DP World Lions celebrate their emphatic victory, they stand as a testament to perseverance, teamwork, and unwavering determination in the face of adversity.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
Johannesburg/Durban, April 22, 2024 - As the dust settles on the electrifying conclusion of the Cricket South Africa (CSA) T20 Challenge regular season, two formidable teams, the DP World Lions and the Hollywoodbets Dolphins, stand tall, having clinched home semi-finals with stellar performances on Sunday.
In a display of sheer brilliance, Daryn Dupavillon stole the spotlight with a career-best five-for, propelling the Hollywoodbets Dolphins to a resounding 7-wicket victory over the Dafabet Warriors in Gqeberha. Dupavillon's fiery spell dismantled the Warriors' batting lineup, restricting them to a modest total of 130/8, despite a valiant 65-run knock from Jordan Hermann. Jon-Jon Smuts and Jason Smith then orchestrated a stunning fourth-wicket partnership, guiding the Dolphins to victory with 16 balls to spare and securing a coveted home semi-final.
Meanwhile, in the City of Gold, the DP World Lions continued their relentless march to the summit with a commanding 7-wicket triumph over the AET Tuskers at the DP World Wanderers Stadium. Nqaba Peter's mesmerizing three-for stifled the Tuskers' batting assault, limiting them to 132/9. In a clinical chase, Zubayr Hamza and Rassie van der Dussen showcased their batting prowess, steering the Lions to victory with 15 balls to spare, ensuring a thrilling semi-final clash on home turf.
The Hollywoodbets Dolphins' stellar victory was mirrored by the Momentum Multiply Titans, who secured a place in the semi-finals with a commanding 6-wicket win over World Sports Betting Western Province at Newlands Cricket Ground. Junior Dala and Corbin Bosch spearheaded the Titans' bowling attack, restricting the hosts to a modest 113/9. Lhuan-dre Pretorius then stole the show with a blistering 52 off 32 balls, propelling the defending champions to victory with nearly seven overs to spare.
As the tournament reaches its crescendo, the stage is set for an exhilarating showdown as the DP World Lions and the Hollywoodbets Dolphins gear up to defend their fortress in the semi-finals. With the Titans and defending champions in hot pursuit, cricket enthusiasts can expect fireworks as these formidable teams vie for T20 supremacy.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
In a thunderous declaration of their world supremacy, the Springboks, reigning champions of the Rugby World Cup, have set their sights on the Northern Hemisphere giants: Scotland, England, and Wales. The Castle Lager Outgoing Tour promises an exhilarating showcase of rugby prowess as the Boks prepare to defend their crown in November.
Commencing their campaign on November 10th in Edinburgh, the Springboks will renew their rivalry with Scotland, a team they vanquished in a commanding display during the opening match of their triumphant 2023 Rugby World Cup journey. The clash promises to be a test of wills as the Boks seek to extend their dominance over the Scots.
The battleground then shifts to London on November 16th, where the double world champions will face off against England, their old adversaries at Twickenham. Memories of their victorious showdown in 2022 still echo through the hallowed grounds, igniting anticipation for another epic encounter.
Venturing into the dragon's lair, the Boks will conclude their tour in Cardiff on November 23rd, where they'll lock horns with Wales at the Principality Stadium. This will mark their second encounter with the Welsh in the same year, following their earlier clash at Twickenham in June.
Coach Rassie Erasmus, the mastermind behind the Boks' resurgence, expressed eagerness for the forthcoming battles, stating, "Facing Scotland, Wales, and England on the year-end tour, two of which we faced in the World Cup, will be fantastic for the team and the players."
Indeed, the tour represents a golden opportunity for the Boks to gauge their mettle against the finest in the Northern Hemisphere. With a thrilling season ahead, including home Test series against Ireland and New Zealand, as well as clashes against Portugal, Australia, and Argentina, the Boks are poised to conquer new frontiers and etch their indomitable legacy in the annals of rugby history.
As the world watches with bated breath, the Springboks stand ready to defend their title and showcase the relentless spirit that has made them champions of the rugby universe.
Springbok fixtures:
Saturday, 22 June: SA vs Wales (Twickenham, London)
Saturday, 6 July: SA vs Ireland (Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria)
Saturday, 13 July: SA vs Ireland (Hollywoodbets Kings Park, Durban)
Saturday, 20 July: SA vs Portugal (Toyota Stadium, Bloemfontein)
Saturday, 10 August: Australia vs SA (Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane)
Saturday, 17 August: Australia vs SA (Optus Stadium, Perth)
Saturday, 31 August: SA vs New Zealand (Emirates Airline Park, Johannesburg)
Saturday, 7 September: SA v New Zealand (DHL Stadium, Cape Town)
Saturday, 21 September: Argentina v SA (venue TBC)
Saturday, 28 September: SA v Argentina (Mbombela Stadium, Nelspruit)
Sunday, 10 November: Scotland vs SA (Murrayfield, Edinburgh)
Saturday, 16 November: England vs SA (Twickenham, London)
Saturday, 23 November: Wales vs SA (Principality Stadium, Cardiff)
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
The Vodacom Bulls and Hollywoodbets Sharks brought South African rugby fans some joy in an otherwise mixed weekend, as both teams secured impressive victories to advance to the quarter-finals of their respective European competitions.
The Vodacom Bulls, who delivered a stunning 59-19 victory over Lyon in Pretoria, will now face the Northhampton Saints in England next Saturday in the Investec Champions Cup quarter-finals. Meanwhile, the Hollywoodbets Sharks, following their dominant 47-3 win against Zebre Parma in Durban, will host Edinburgh in their EPCR Challenge Cup quarter-final.
However, it was disappointment for the other three South African sides. The DHL Stormers suffered a heartbreaking last-minute 22-21 defeat against defending champions Stade Rochelais in Cape Town, while the Toyota Cheetahs fell short against Clermont Auvergne with a 27-22 loss in France. The Emirates Lions also faced a frustrating 27-17 defeat against Benetton in Italy, despite the hosts receiving a red card early in the second half.
Vodacom Bulls Roar to Victory
The Vodacom Bulls showcased their dominance against Lyon, outscoring the visitors nine tries to three for a comprehensive win. Sebastian de Klerk and Embrose Papier each scored two tries, with the team's attack proving relentless. Lyon struggled to match the Bulls' intensity, with the French team forced to settle for scraps throughout the match.
Heartbreak for DHL Stormers
It was a tale of heartbreak for the DHL Stormers as they narrowly missed out on a win against Stade Rochelais. Despite a strong first half, where they entered the break with a 13-0 lead, injuries and a yellow card to Marcel Theunissen in the second half allowed the defending champions back into the game. A missed conversion on the stroke of fulltime denied the Stormers a victory, ultimately leading to their exit from the competition.
Toyota Cheetahs' Brave Fightback Falls Short
The Toyota Cheetahs staged a strong second-half comeback against Clermont Auvergne, scoring three tries after being 27-3 down. Despite their efforts, they were unable to secure a late victory, with Clermont holding on for a 27-22 win.
Emirates Lions' Disappointing Exit
The Emirates Lions faced a frustrating defeat against Benetton, despite the hosts receiving a red card in the second half. The Lions were unable to capitalize on their numerical advantage, ending their EPCR Challenge Cup campaign with a 27-17 loss.
Hollywoodbets Sharks Dominate Zebre
In a commanding performance, the Hollywoodbets Sharks outclassed Zebre Parma with a 47-3 victory. The Sharks' attack was relentless, scoring seven tries to secure a home quarter-final against Edinburgh.
The quarter-finals promise to deliver more exciting rugby action, with the Bulls and Sharks flying the flag for South Africa as they continue their European campaigns.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
The Hollywoodbets Dolphins are gearing up for a crucial phase in the CSA T20 Challenge, as they face some important matches in the near future. Their path to the later stages of the tournament begins with a thrilling match against the DP World Lions at the DP World Wanderers on Friday.
The Dolphins, currently in fourth place, have an incredible chance to make significant progress in their quest for a home semi-final spot. With a few victories in the upcoming matches, they have the potential to climb up the standings, paving the way for a powerful conclusion to the tournament.
The Dolphins have a busy weekend ahead, with matches lined up for both Friday and Sunday. They are determined to secure consecutive wins and maintain their winning streak. The team's next matches will be against the Lions, a strong opponent they previously triumphed over in an exhilarating match in Durban. They will also face the Auto Investment North West Dragons in Potchefstroom on Sunday.
Assistant coach Mduduzi Mbatha highlighted the team's unwavering dedication to this pivotal stage of the competition. "We are thrilled about this phase and fully grasp the significance of reaching our peak at the perfect moment," Mbatha expressed. "We have pinpointed the crucial areas we need to concentrate on and are on the verge of delivering a flawless performance."
"We have been putting in relentless effort to ensure that every aspect of our game - bowling, batting, and fielding - is performing at its peak," he stated. "The team's remarkable cohesion has undoubtedly played a pivotal role in our triumphant journey thus far, and it will undoubtedly prove to be of utmost importance as we navigate the thrilling climax of the competition."
As the Dolphins gear up for their upcoming matches, they have a chance to secure their spot in the semi-finals. Mbatha, however, stresses the significance of focusing on each game individually. "Our focus is solely on the upcoming challenge, as we prepare to face the Lions at the Wanderers this Friday," he elaborated. "In the fast-paced world of T20 cricket, anything can happen, and it's crucial for us to flawlessly execute our game plan in every single match."
In their recent match against the AET Tuskers, the Dolphins were thrilled to have Tristan Luus join their team. Luus showcased his skills with impressive figures of 2/30 and made a crucial run-out that had a significant impact on the game. Mbatha is thrilled about Luus's immense potential and the valuable impact he brings to the team's overall dynamic.
"We are eagerly anticipating Tristan's development and the unique contributions he will make," Mbatha expressed with enthusiasm. "The way he played against the Tuskers really highlighted his talent, and it's clear that he has a promising future ahead of him."
With the Dolphins preparing for their upcoming fixtures, they have managed to maintain a well-balanced squad that combines the energy of youth with the wisdom of experience. The team's strong unity has played a crucial role in their successful campaign up to this point, and they are determined to maintain this momentum as they head into the playoffs.
The squad of the Hollywoodbets Dolphins is a dynamic blend of experienced players and promising young talents. Some notable names in the team include Ottniel Baartman, Khaya Zondo, Grant Roelofsen, and Andile Phehlukwayo, among others. With a well-rounded roster and a strategic game plan, the Dolphins are poised for an exhilarating finale to the T20 Challenge.
Photo: Gallo
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
The Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens, the sixth and penultimate round of the HSBC SVNS 2024, will take place in the electric Hong Kong Stadium and will feature the best men's and women's rugby sevens teams in the world. One hundred and twenty thousand people, anxious to see the exciting action, are predicted to attend this legendary event from April 5th to 7th.
On Wednesday, the captains of the twelve teams taking part in the festival got into the spirit by dressing up for the traditional captains' photo in front of the iconic South stand at the stadium. Everything is getting ready for what should be an exciting and dramatic weekend on and off the pitch.
With a commanding 20-point lead, Argentina is in a position to win the SVNS 2024 League Winners title in the men's competition. On the women's side, things are getting exciting as we move into the last regular season round in Singapore from May 3rd to May 5th, where Australia and New Zealand will be competing for the crown.
Fans will get to see Michael Hooper, Australia's most capped men's test player, play in his seventh test match, even though French superstar Antoine Dupont isn't playing for France this time. Following the previous round in Los Angeles, the pools for the Hong Kong Sevens were chosen by the legendary sevens player Waisale Serevi of Fiji, ensuring that some intriguing pairings would be formed. In Men's Pool A, you'll find Australia, Canada, Fiji, and France, all of which have won the Olympics twice. The current leaders of the SVNS, Argentina, are in Pool B with the USA, Great Britain, and defending champions of the SVNS, New Zealand. South Africa, Samoa, Ireland, and Spain make up Pool C.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
