JOHANNESBURG: The 2024/25 T20 Challenge is set to kick off on Friday, 27 September, with the defending champions, DP World Lions, facing the Momentum Multiply Titans at DP World Wanderers in Johannesburg.
On Saturday, the newly-promoted Knights will host Auto Investments North West Dragons at the Mangaung Oval in Bloemfontein.
The opening round will conclude with the Cape derby, as World Sports Betting Western Province host Goldrush Boland, while Dafabet Warriors take on last season’s finalists, Hollywoodbets Dolphins, at Dafabet St George’s Park in Gqeberha.
This year’s T20 Challenge will feature three play-offs, including two qualifiers and an eliminator to secure the final spot.
Tickets are now available to purchase on Ticketpro and at stadiums across the country, as the Woza Nawe campaign continues to encourage fans to join the excitement and embrace their hometown pride.
Ahead of the tournament, team captains gathered for a promotional shoot and shared their thoughts on the upcoming season. The captains enjoyed a day of friendly competition with a go-karting race, where the Lions took first place, followed by the Warriors and Knights in second and third, respectively.
Mitchell van Buuren, captain of the Lions, called on the fans to rally behind the defending champions:
“We’re calling on all our supporters to come out in full force and back the Lions as we start our title defence. With home-ground advantage at Wanderers next Friday and the Derby against Titans, your support can be the game-changer. The more fans we have in the stands, the stronger we feel. So, bring your pride and let’s make it a memorable season opener!”
Prenelan Subrayen, captain of the Dolphins, reflected on their near-miss in the last season’s final: “We came really close last year, but we’ve learned from those experiences and made the necessary adjustments. Our approach will be similar, but we’ve fine-tuned a few things. Starting strong in the first game is crucial, and we’re determined to get off on the right foot.”
Neil Brand, captain of the Titans, spoke about the intensity of the Jukskei derby:
“Matches against the Lions are always tightly contested, and we’re excited to get the season underway. We’ve strengthened our squad with some key signings and can’t wait for Friday. The focus is simple—start strong and keep the momentum going. The team is in a good headspace, and we’re ready to give it everything.”
Jiveshan Pillay of the Warriors commented on their strategy for the upcoming season:
“We got close last year but fell short. We’ve learned a lot and are eager to start this tournament on the front foot. Playing at home is a big advantage for us, and we know Dolphins will be a tough side to beat. But we’re ready for the challenge and focused on delivering a strong performance.”
Clyde Fortuin, captain of Boland, expressed excitement about the team’s new identity and squad additions:
“It’s thrilling to see Boland’s name back in the competition, and we’re all geared up. We’ve made a few exciting signings, and we’re looking to start much stronger than we did last time. The team is positive, the coach has settled in, and we’re ready to play some entertaining cricket for the fans.”
Mihlali Mpongwana of Western Province reflected on their past performance and the upcoming Cape derby:
“Last season didn’t go as we had hoped, but we’ve put that behind us. This time, we’re going in with all guns blazing. The Cape derby against Boland is always special, and we’re ready to give it everything we’ve got.”
Wihan Lubbe, captain of the Dragons, discussed the challenge of facing the returning division 2 champions:
“The Knights have strengthened their squad, and there’s a reason they earned their way back to the top division. They’re a competitive side, but we’ve also made solid acquisitions, and we’re excited to get the season started. We’ve had some great home games, and we’re eager to carry that momentum forward.”
Dane Piedt, captain of the Knights, urged the Mangaung supporters to turn out in full force:
“With the recent success of the Cheetahs in the Currie Cup, there’s a lot of excitement around sport in Bloemfontein. We’re inviting everyone to come out and enjoy the atmosphere this Saturday. There’ll be family-friendly activities, and the Bloemfontein pitch promises high-scoring, thrilling cricket. The Dragons are a strong team, but we’re ready, and we hope to see the locals show their support—we won’t disappoint!”
Source: cricket.co.za
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