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NewsJanuary 18, 2022
OVK PARTNERS WITH FSCU TOWARDS CRICKET DEVELOPMENTFree State Cricket Union (FSCU) continues to enhance and develop cricket as the people’s game in the Free State, and welcomed OVK as yet another partner in our stive to attract, develop and retain talented players in Mangaung. The OVK Group, with its head office in Ladybrand, is a progressive agricultural company in South Africa. This new partnership will assist FSCU to further grow the cricket brand within the Mangaung communities by providing transport to fulfil day-to-day cricket activities. CEO of FSCU Johan van Heerden said: “We all know how difficult times are currently. OVK as one of the biggest role players in adding economical value to RSA, has joined hands with FSCU in closing the gap to assist taking the game to the communities. We are extremely proud to associate ourselves with OVK and look forward to a mutual beneficiary relationship.” Stefan Oberholzer, MD of OVK said: “OVK supports local sport, and after nearly two years of not being able to watch live sport, he’s sure everyone is looking forward to support the Iive games. OVK is proud to be associated with the Free State Cricket Union and look forward to a great season of cricket.” About OVK The company is strongly diversified with activities in various agricultural areas and delivers a wide range of products and services to its clients. The basket of products OVK purchases from its producers and supply to its customers is also well diversified (e.g. wool, mohair, livestock (with a team of technical field officers to assist farmers to assist in the 3 before mentioned fields across the OVK footprint), grain, lucerne, agricultural inputs, mechanisation, etc). These products are produced in extensive dry land, irrigated and extensive grazing parts of our country. OVK also have agencies for Toyota, Claas, Fendt and Massey Ferguson. OVK also have well-rounded departments in insurance and financing. This insure a 360 degree solution for the farmer. OVK’s service area stretches over four provinces: Free State, Eastern Cape, Northern Cape and North West, Mpumalanga, Western Cape and Gauteng. With the high potential of the region, it’s farmers and the diversity of the types of farming in its service area, OVK makes a valuable contribution to the economy of South Africa. ... Read more...
NewsAugust 11, 2021
2020/2021 FREE STATE CRICKET UNION ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING2020/2021 Free State Cricket Union Annual General Meeting Free State Cricket Union (FSCU) last night hosted their 129th Annual General Meeting (AGM) via Microsoft Teams; The President Mr Xander Snyders welcomed everyone, with special recognition to the Board of Directors, Members Council, Staff, PWC and Sponsors. After the confirmation of the agenda, notice of meeting and adoption of the minutes the President continued with his annual Presidents Report: “Good evening Ladies and Gentlemen, stakeholders, honoured guests, it’s an honour and privilege for me to present the Annual Report of Free State Cricket for the season of 2020-2021. It needs to be noted that the season ended 30 April 2021 still under Covid 19 regulations and limitations. It think it will only be appropriate to firstly pay our last respect to all of those who lost a family member, friend and or colleague due to the Covid 19 pandemic, may their soul rest in eternal peace. Unfortunately only limited cricket and or activities were allowed in the season due to Covid 19. Activities on the field as well as off the field and cricket administration were compromised in these difficult times. We can only be grateful and blessed for the cricket activities that materialised under stringent Covid 19 regulations and protocols. Covid 19 also prevented FSCU to host several tournaments as well as an England ODI in 2020 of which had a huge negative impact on the financials FSCU. All awards was done on a virtual platform to conform to Covid 19 regulations. The new normal, Virtual Awards, was effective and done professionally recognising and acknowledged all the players and administrators who performed through the season. Highlights/ Achievements during 2020-2021 Season FSCU Provincial Senior Women’s team ended second in Oudtshoorn Bio- Bubble matches held in March 2021. Annerie Dercksen was selected for SA Emerging Squad touring Bangladesh and Zimbabwe. FSCU started an Academy for girls. The girls practice on Friday afternoons at Mangaung Oval. FSCU is the first province to introduce Girls Academy. Lerato Nqoyi and Reeza Alexander represented the Knights Franchise Cubs at Stellenbosch for 2021 week. Marco de Kock – Academy player and Lerato Nqoyi from U/19 make their debut for Senior Provincial Team in a Bio-Bubble matches in Bloemfontein pool. Due to Covid-19, our professional side played in the following competitions of CSA. CSA 4 Day Competition The Knights came second in their pool. Patrick Botha was elevated to the VKB Knights due to his performance. Momentum 1 Day Competition played in North West under Bio-Bubble Played 4 matches Lost 1 No Result 3 The following players were selected as part of the VKB Knights team from the FSCU Amateur team, however they could not participate due to the limited matches that was played. Patrick Botha Neelan van Heerden Johan van Dyk Pheko Moletsane Sean Whitehead CSA T20 Competition took place in Durban under Bio-Bubble. Played 5 Won 1 Lost 4 Ended 5th on the overall log FSCU is proud to congratulate the players that received Protea call ups, we cannot wait to see them in future in green and gold. Jacques Snyman Pite van Biljon Mighael Pretorius Raynard van Tonder Indian Premier League (T20) Gerald Coetzee – Rajasthan Royals Caribbean Premier League (T20) Mighael Pretorius – Jamaican Talawars Congratulations to all that performed and achieved the highest level in a difficult season, you made FSCU proud. Special Tributes Unfortunately for FSCU Michelle Botha our Women Provincial Player and her husband Gawie Botha who was a National Panel Umpire departed to Abu Dabi. FSCU wish them only the best in their future endeavours. Free State Cricket Union also want to extend their word of appreciation to Romano Terblanche who retired. Romano played in all levels of cricket in the Free State and the Franchise. He played for fourteen years, two hundred and seventy four matches across all formats. Thank you Romano for your commitment and passion for cricket. Cricket South Africa The 2020-2021 season will most probably be known as a controversial and difficult year for CSA. The Fundudzi report was revealed to public and all Government platforms in 2020 of which lead the Minister of Sport to initiate an Interim Board to implement seven pillars of the Fundudzi report. The Fundudzi report caused huge damage to the Image of CSA and the game in the media and was crucified all over for bad governance and financial management. I am delighted to say that all the fundamental concerns in the Fundudzi report was ironed out including the MOI. CSA can now concentrate on promoting the game that we all love. The CSA AGM was scheduled for 12 June 2021 and FSCU would like to congratulate all the new appointments. A special word of encouragement to go to Mr Rihan Richards and Mr Naidoo, FSCU wish them a very successful term in very testing circumstances. Sub Unions & Cricket in General FSCU want to acknowledge the Sub Unions efforts, commitments and passion for the game. We definitely need to review structures to ensure that all resources are applied efficiently to produce sufficient facilities that conform to the required standards and develop cricket in all areas and levels. Financial constraints will definitely pose a challenge in future therefore we need to work hard to ensure all clubs become financially independent through securing revenue. It is my personal opinion that Development Clubs also needs to be empowered to function independently. FSCU is proud to be associated with our sponsors that has made a significant role in the wellbeing of cricket. I want to thank VKB for the past seven years the relationship did go beyond the playing fields. Let me also acknowledge and appreciate the overwhelming support of our sponsors through the past season in the name of VKB, Magnifisan, SA Breweries, Distell, Twizza, Avis, OFM and Human Motors without your support in the struggling economy we wouldn’t have made it. Sadly Avis decided after fifteen years not to continue with their sponsorship. FSCU also want to welcome the new sponsors into the Free State Cricket family we cannot wait for the new season working together to build our brand and game that we love. FSCU also wants to thank the media for their important contribution towards cricket throughout the year. As in the past finance will always be a challenge especially with a South African economy under pressure. The 2021-2022 season will not be different, the hosting of international games, domestic tournaments and the attainment of new revenues will be integral to the wellbeing of FSCU. New sponsors will play a fundamental role in the wellbeing of FSCU in these trying times. We are excited going into a new domestic season of cricket where FSCU will be playing under its own identity since the inception of Franchises. We are playing in the new domestic structure in Division A where we qualify to play in the Mzanzi League. Our team, the Knights, will also be fitted out with a new logo and play in dominantly orange clothing. The Knights team compilation is a combination of experience and youth, we cannot wait to see the Orange Machine in action under the leadership of our Captain Pite Van Biljon. In conclusion I want to thank the Board of Directors, Members Council, players, technical officials and personnel for the healthy relationship in taking forward the organisation, their hard work and commitment through the season. I want to thank the CEO, Johan Van Heerden, and his team for their perseverance, support and crucial role they performed throughout the season. Together we can only build the FSCU brand to become one of the best Cricket Unions in South Africa. Lastly, I would like to thank my family for being patient and the unconditional support through the season. I thank you.” The annual financial statement will be finalised by the auditors by next week thus the Income and Balance Sheets was presented by FSCU Treasurers Mr. Jeff Mosala and accepted by the board. Presentation of the Affiliates reports were referred to the AGM Booklet. Mr Snyders closed the 129th Annual General Meeting by thanking all for the past season and hoping that the new season will bring more opportunities to play cricket. The link to the FSCU AGM 2020 2021 Booklet: https://www.dropbox.com/t/hbn3Z9DoGrvEYteT... Read more...
NewsMay 13, 2021
KNIGHTS CRICKET SIGNS INTERNATIONAL CLOTHING SPONSOR CANTERBURYFREE STATE CRICKET UNION’s (FSCU) professional side KNIGHTS CRICKET have concluded agreements for official clothing sponsor and is proud to add CANTERBURY to the dawn of the new orange machine era. The Knights who pride themselves to be included as one of the super 8 teams with the Cricket South Africa’s new cricket restructuring, are proud to be ambassadors for an international brand that have been sponsoring high profile teams for more than a century and we hope to add memorable on-field experiences for the next three years. CEO of FSCU, Johan van Heerden commented: “Canterbury as an International brand brings a lot of new ideas to our exciting new Team. We are happy to announce that with the input of all our loyal supporters through social media and surveys that 90% of our followers supported majority the mighty orange as our colour to do battle. They have also had input into the logos redesign and we feel extremely excited for the new year! Allan Donald, Head Coach of the FSCU professional side the Knights also commented: “Today I am extremely proud to say we are partnering with a magnificent brand, CANTERBURY. A brand that has span over a period of 17 years and has been part of many teams around the world including that of the Black Caps in New-Zealand. We are extremely proud to join hands with them for the next 3-years. What was most exciting is that the fans was part of the logo and clothing designs, with the young and older generation seeing us play in orange again from October. We are very excited about the partnership with CANTERBURY and there is no doubt that they will provide us with top class outfits which players can feel extremely proud of.” Corné Krige, Brand Director Kingdom and Co: “ For us as Kingdom and Co, under our flagship brand Canterbury, it is a great honour to be the official kit sponsor of The Knights. We have strong roots in Bloemfontein as we also sponsor Grey College. We are excited about the opportunities around cricket, and we look forward to a long and fruitful relationship with the Knights.” Du Toit Botes, CEO Kingdom and Co: “ We see this partnership with The Knights as a significant first step for Canterbury South Africa to enter into the professional arena of cricket again. We take great learnings from Canterbury New Zealand, sponsors of ‘The Black Caps’ who played in the previous Cricket World Cup Final and look forward to reimagine with The Knights and bring back excitement to the world of Cricket.” About the company: Kingdom and Co (Pty) Ltd. was established as a brand development house which focuses on igniting sustainable and long-term momentum brands in South Africa and sub-Saharan markets. Founded on family values, trust, honour, relationships, faith and unrivalled passion to not only succeed, but to be a business of significance, we are committed to providing our partners and customers with a turn key solution for the Southern African market, ensuring continuity of trust and supply. We design, source, manufacture, market and distribute key international brands within our territories. Kingdom and Co proudly distribute the following sport’s brands: Canterbury, Mitre, NBA, MovePretty, Your Label, Unite4One and Naked Hockey. Kingdom and Co’s vision is to be the industry’s leading sports apparel and sports goods supplier, fuelled by quality brands that will inspire, support and make a difference to one life at a time.... Read more...
NewsNovember 25, 2020
PRETORIUS SHINES AS KNIGHTS DOMINATE LIONSTuesday, 24 November 2020 Migael Pretorius continued his outstanding showing at the Bullring by following up his unbeaten half-century with four wickets to bowl the VKB Knights into a strong position after day two of their 4-Day Domestic Series encounter against the Imperial Lions in Johannesburg on Tuesday. The seamer, who has been in excellent form for his new Central Franchise team this season, claimed four for 40 in 15 overs to help dismiss the defending champions for 202 in response to 300, which he contributed a top score of 79 not out (104 balls, 11 fours) to. Pretorius then manage to put his feet up and watch as Jonathan Vandiar (53 off 83 balls, 9 fours) and Raynard van Tonder (39) put on an unbroken 82 together to take the visitors to stumps at 111 for one – a lead of 209 at the Imperial Wanderers Stadium. The unbeaten Knights have enjoyed a good comeback in the round three game following a poor start in which they had slumped to 121 for five on day one. But Pretorius played a key role in carrying them out of trouble and was there when they resumed day two on 291 for nine. However, they lasted only four more overs before Sisanda Magala (6/60) claimed his sixth wicket by dismissing debutant Andrew Rasemene (0) to end the innings. That wicket also left Pretorius stranded two shy of his career-best 81. The Lions’ reply was a poor one as they lost their first three wickets inside the first six overs – Joshua Richards and Ryan Rickelton falling for ducks before Dominic Hendricks was sent packing for six. Mbulelo Budaza (2/56) did the early damage with two of the wickets and the home side then lost two more men before reaching 50, Wesley Marshall (15) and Wiaan Mulder (20) the pair to follow. Had it not been for lower-order resistance by Kagiso Rapulana (44), Delano Potgieter (40), Malusi Siboto (31) and Sisanda Magala (28 not out), the Lions would have been completely blown away, but they did at least manage to cross 200, keeping the lead to 98. But that was then extended to 209 thanks to an excellent partnership by Vandiar and Van Tonder, who will resume together on day three. ... Read more...
NewsNovember 24, 2020
LIONS, KNIGHTS BATTLE HARD ON OPENING DAYMonday, 23 November 2020 Sisanda Magala completed a 10th career five-for late on a see-saw opening day to help the Imperial Lions fight back against the VKB Knights in their 4-Day Domestic Series encounter in Johannesburg on Monday. The seamer claimed five for 57, including two wickets from what proved to be the final deliveries of the day, as the visitors closed on 291 for nine at Imperial Wanderers Stadium. That total in itself represented a remarkable recovery for Allan Donald’s charges, who at one stage had sunk to 74 for and looked to be headed for a far lower first-innings total after losing the toss and being put in to bat. However, Grant Mokoena’s half-century (50 off 148 balls, 6 fours) and a career-best by Migael Pretorius (73 not out off 91 balls, 11 fours) did the bulk of the recovery, before Magala’s late wickets ensured the day ended finely poised. The home side, without a win so far in the competition and minus a host of their star names due to national duty, made a bright start to the clash by striking regularly during the opening part of the day. Jonathan Vandiar (18), Matthew Kleinveldt (26), Andries Gous (4) and Raynard van Tonder (8) were all dismissed in the opening 20.4 overs – Magala, Tladi Bokako (2/62) and Malusi Siboto (1/24) doing the early damage. Farhaan Behardien (35) lead the initial recovery alongside Mokoena, but once he fell the Central Franchise were still in a huge hole at 121 for five. But the tables turned dramatically from there. Mokoena, playing his first game of the season, added 51 for the sixth wicket with stand-in captain Shaun von Berg (27), before a 67-run partnership with Pretorius, who went on to surpass his previous best franchise score of 62 that was recorded in the previous round. The runs continued to flow via a blazing 27 off 31 balls from the fit-again Gerald Coetzee that took the Knights to the final over of play at 291 for seven. But Magala then landed two crucial blows, taking out the fast bowler as well as Mbulelo Budaza from successive deliveries to even things up late on. The former Warriors man will be on a hat-trick when he takes the ball on the second morning.... Read more...
NewsNovember 22, 2020
LIONS WARY OF IN-FORM KNIGHTSFriday, 20 November 2020 Imperial Lions coach Wandile Gwavu concedes that his defending champions have not made an ideal start to the 4-Day Domestic Series but believes they will improve when they take on a VKB Knights team he believes ‘is playing the best cricket in the country’ from Monday. The two clash at the Imperial Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg where the hosts will seeking a first win and the visitors bidding to make it three wins from three to start the 2020/21 campaign. “It’s not the start we were looking for, but nothing has changed as we try to turn things around,” Gwavu said ahead of the game. “We had a good week of training this week and we also had some good discussions with the players. “The energy at training and in the dressing room is very positive. There are a few aspects that we really want to improve on. We saw some of those improvements in the Cobras game, unfortunately we just couldn’t get over the line there. “We’re still in a good space and we’re confident of putting up an improved performances going forward.” The Lions, who have won the title for the last two seasons, were beaten heavily by the Hollywoodbets Dolphins in round one, before being held to a draw by the Six Gun Grill Cobras in a round two encounter they had dominated. Now in round three, the coach knows there is little room for error. “We have to respect the Knights because of the good cricket they’ve played, probably the best in the country so far,” Gwavu said. “They’ve made an excellent start, but we’re at home and hopefully that factor will work in our favour.” The Lions have lost a huge chunk of their squad to the national team, but the coach is confident in their depth. “We’re losing eight players from this round,” Gwavu adds. “We always lose players, this year is obviously a bit more because of the extended squad the Proteas have named. It’s a great thing when your players are called up. “But we have a lot of depth and if you look at the last few years, whenever we lose players, those who come in always step up and I’m looking forward to see how they respond for us.” Meanwhile, Knights coach Allan Donald could not have asked for a better start to his career in Bloemfontein. They crushed both the Warriors and Dolphins in their two matches thus far and the former Proteas paceman is delighted with the way things have begun. “I think the headstart we had in the preseason was all worth it, all the long hours, the lonely days working one-on-one with players was a great investment,” he beamed. “Getting to know each individual better, their strengths and those sorts of things has made a huge difference. “I’m just so pleased. We sat down and spoke at length about the art of Test cricket and the rhythms and intensities of Test cricket. I couldn’t be more pleased for the guys and the way they are playing. “The competition this year is very tight, seven games and so you can’t afford any slip-ups…so the response we’ve had is magnificent. I just hope we can build on this.” Looking ahead to the trip to Gauteng, Donald conceded they have to be prepared for a backlash from the hosts. “We’re up against a Lions team that haven’t had the best of starts,” he concluded. “But they’re an outstanding team and I have no doubt they’ll come out swinging at one of my favourite grounds in the world. “It is our first away game, but we’re really up for it.” The match will be broadcast through a live stream via the DStv app or website, available to all DStv customers, on channel 245. All matches in the 4-Day Domestic Series are also being covered via ball-by-ball commentary on the Cricket South Africa (CSA) website, www.cricket.co.za. The Lions squad is: To be confirmed The Knights squad is: Farhaan Berhardien, Mbulelo Budaza, Gerald Coetzee, Andries, Gouws, Duan Jansen, Matthew Kleinveldt, Patrick Kruger, Shaun von Berg (capt), Grant Mokoena, Alfred Mothoa, Migael Pretorius, Jonathan Vandiar, Raynard van Tonder.... Read more...
NewsNovember 22, 2020
CSA AND SUPERSPORT SET TO LIVE STREAM 4-DAY DOMESTIC SERIESThursday, 19 November 2020 Cricket South Africa (CSA) is delighted to announce that official broadcast partner SuperSport will live stream several matches of the 2020/21 4-Day Domestic Series. SuperSport, who own the rights to broadcast all cricket in South Africa, will provide supporters the opportunity to enjoy the red-ball action through multi-camera angles and commentary via the DStv app or website, available to all DStv customers, on channel 245. Cricket is currently being played behind closed doors, and live streaming the series will enhance the match-day experience at home and bring fans one step closer to domestic cricket. Fans can also follow their franchise teams through a new-look match centre with ball-by-ball coverage on the official CSA website (cricket.co.za). One match from each of the remaining rounds will be showcased, beginning with a Round 3 encounter between reigning champions Imperial Lions and the VKB Knights at the Imperial Wanderers, starting Monday 23 November. Broadcast will start from 09h55 daily. The 4-Day Series has six competing teams divided into two pools of three teams each. They will play a double round of fixtures against teams in their own pool and a single round of cross-pool matches. The top team from each of the pools will contest a five-day final. After the opening two rounds, the Momentum Multiply Titans (A) and the VKB Knights (B) top their respective pools after registering back to back wins. CSA Acting CEO Kugandrie Govender commented: “It has taken a lot of investment of many kinds from both CSA and SuperSport to make live streaming of the 4-Day Domestic Series a realisation. These investments have been taken with our fans in mind. They are the heart and soul of the game and we are truly delighted be able deliver first-class cricket to them through high-quality streaming.” “Increasingly, sport broadcasters are embracing the streaming model, so to have domestic cricket on board is very exciting,” said Marc Jury, SuperSport’s head of marketing and acquisitions. “There is some great local talent out there and while we cannot have crowds, this allows fans to still watch the talent and enjoy the best of local match-ups.” Imperial Lions CEO Jono Leaf-Wright added: “As the defending champions it is fantastic that our supporters and partners will be able to watch the Imperial Lions and other franchises compete in the 4-Day Domestic Series. “It is an effort welcomed by the players, sponsors and all stakeholders of the cricketing eco system. The players are especially excited as they can now showcase their skill to a large audience especially since fans are not allowed at the stadium right now,” concluded Leaf-Wright. Consumers in South Africa can subscribe to DStv directly through the website here or the DStv IOS and android app. 4-Day Domestic Series broadcast schedule (subject to change): Round 3 23 – 26 November 2020 Imperial Lions vs VKB Knights at Imperial Wanderers Round 4 30 November – 3 December 2020 Momentum Multiply Titans vs Six Gun Grill Cobras at SuperSport Park Round 5 13 – 16 December 2020 Momentum Multiply Titans vs Hollywoodbets Dolphins at SuperSport Park Round 6 20 – 23 December 2020 Six Gun Grill Cobras vs VKB Knights at Six Gun Grill Newlands Round 7 18 – 21 February 2020 To be confirmed Final 25 February – 1 March 2020 To be confirmed... Read more...
NewsNovember 22, 2020
CSA MOURNS THE PASSING OF KIMI MAKWETUFriday, 13 November 2020 Cricket South Africa (CSA) has received news of the passing of Auditor-General, Thembekile Kimi Makwetu who passed away on Wednesday, 11 November 2020 after a battle with lung cancer, with sadness. “A diligent and committed Auditor-General, Kimi excelled in his position to bring about a sharp focus on accountability in government departments and local authorities. His reports on audit findings reflected his values of honest existence, fair reporting and free from favour,” said CSA Acting Chief Executive Officer Kugandrie Govender. Kimi was closely involved for many years as a cricket Dad. His fascination for youth developed is personified through his sons who excelled in the game. Kimi’s elder son, Wandile became captain of the SA U19s team in 2019, while another son Thando is a junior Central Gauteng Lions’ representative. “Kimi was always quietly supporting his son’s cricket endeavours when his demanding position allowed him to. His own career set a clear pathway for his children who find themselves at various stages of secondary and tertiary education. CSA will miss his unassuming, but large presence at cricket matches as an ardent fan of the sport. “Accordingly, CSA prefers its heartfelt condolences to Kimi’s wife, Miranda, sons Wandile and Thando and daughter Soso, with the assurance that their loss is shared by the entire country and the cricketing community”, concluded Ms Govender.... Read more...
NewsNovember 22, 2020
PRETORIUS FOUR-FOR SEALS BIG KNIGHTS WINThursday, 12 November 2020 Migael Pretorius finished with seven wickets in the match to help the VKB Knights complete back-to-back wins in the opening two rounds of the 4-Day Domestic Series after completing a big 227-run win over the Hollywoodbets Dolphins on the final day of their clash in Bloemfontein on Thursday. The seamer finished with four for 52 in the second innings to leave the visitors all out for 243 chasing an unlikely 471-run victory target at the Mangaung Oval. Pretorius also claimed three for 50 first time around, to complete a match haul of seven for 102 to go with his career-best 62 with the bat. Sarel Erwee ended as the top-scorer with 81 (185 balls, 12 fours) for Imraan Khan’s team. The KwaZulu-Natal franchise began the final day with hopes of at least salvaging something from the game when they resumed on 138 for two and their in-form opener still there on 58. After the early loss of Marques Ackerman, bowled by Mbulelo Budaza (2/67) without adding to his overnight 32, they progressed well initially. Khaya Zondo (14) helped take the Dolphins up to 177 for three, and at that stage, saving the game looked a real possibility with less than an hour to go before lunch. But the ex-captain was trapped leg before wicket by Shaun von Berg (2/53) and worse was to follow when two more wickets went down in the next two overs. New man Senuran Muthusamy (2) was caught and bowled by Patrick Kruger (2/28), followed by key batsman Erwee to the bowling of Budaza. The Dolphins suddenly found themselves tottering at 186 for six. From there Proteas all-rounder Andile Phehlukwayo (18) and debutant Ruan de Swardt (36 not out) did their best to delay the Knights with a 31-run partnership. However, Pretorius returned to run through the tail and seal another emphatic triumph for Allan Donald and his charges, who extended their advantage at the top of Pool A.... Read more...
NewsNovember 22, 2020
IN-FORM ERWEE HELPS DOLPHINS FIGHTWednesday, 11 November 2020 Half centuries by Pite van Biljon and Farhaan Behardien ensured the VKB Knights maintained their dominance over the Hollywoodbets Dolphins on the penultimate day of their 4-Day Domestic Series encounter in Bloemfontein on Wednesday. However, an unbeaten 58 (128 balls, 10 fours) by the in-form Sarel Erwee was delaying the Central Franchise’s victory push with the visitors going to stump on 138 for two – chasing an unlikely 457 for victory. Earlier, captain Van Biljon lead from the front with a strong 93 off 125 balls (7 fours, 1 six) and veteran Behardien recorded an unbeaten 50 (98 balls, 3 fours) with the pair helping their side post 208 for four declared in their second innings. The home side started day three at the Mangaung Oval on 21 for none and looking to build quickly on their big first-innings lead. Openers Raynard van Tonder (26) and Matthew Kleinveldt (21) managed to add a further 16 to their overnight partnership, before the latter was dismissed by debutant Lifa Ntanzi (1/22). Van Tonder battled on till the total reached 75 when he was cleaned up by Keshav Maharaj (1/59), bringing together Van Biljon and Behardien. The pair added 108 together for the third wicket to take the game almost completely away from the coastal side. The partnership was eventually ended by Senuran Muthusamy (2/19), who also accounted for Patrick Kruger (7) just after the 200 was raised as the Knights declared in the 57th over. It was then over to the Dolphins to see if they could bat out the remaining four sessions and a bit and they did fairly well to only lose two wickets by the close. Key to their fight was Erwee, who continued to brim with confidence following his 199 in the opening round of fixtures last week. However, his opening partner Grant Roelofsen extended his woeful start to the season, following his scores of nought, one and two in his previous three innings with another duck – Migael Pretorius (1/32) the bowler. A 90-run second-wicket stand, however, got the Dolphins going as Keegan Petersen (48) provided strong support for Erwee. But Patrick Kruger (1/18) then landed an important second blow, before Marques Ackerman prevented any further loss with an unbeaten 32 that took the away side to the close with eight wickets still intact and 319 still to get.... Read more...
NewsNovember 22, 2020
MOTHOA AND PRETORIUS BLOW DOLPHINS AWAYTuesday, 10 November 2020 Alfred Mothoa and Migael Pretorius shared seven wickets as the VKB Knights walked all over the Hollywoodbets Dolphins on day two of their 4-Day Domestic Series encounter in Bloemfontein on Tuesday. The former claimed four for 35 and the latter snared three to 50 to help shoot out the visitors for a poor 162 at the Mangaung Oval. That response was after the home side had amassed an impressive 424 earlier on the second day when Pretorius also shone with the bat, striking a franchise-high 62 (145 balls, 6 fours). The seamer played a fine supporting role for top-scorer Raynard van Tonder, who moved from his overnight 119 not out to an eventual total of 166 (285 balls, 13 fours, 2 sixes). At the end of both first innings, the Knights held a mighty lead of 262 and that was stretched to 283 by the end of play after the Central Franchise reached 21 for none in their second innings – completing a dominant day in the process. They resumed the second morning on 323 for seven, with Van Tonder, the competition’s leading run scorer from last season, extending his eighth-wicket partnership with Pretorius to a fixture record of 106. The latter went on to record his second four-day half-century and highest score at this level, beating his previous best score of 50 not out for the Imperial Lions against the Dolphins along the way. That big stand was eventually ended by pick of the bowlers Ruan de Swardt (2/39), a player debuting for the visitors, with the last three wickets then quickly folding. The Dolphins’ reply started decently as Sarel Erwee (37) and Grant Roelofsen (2) put on 41 for the first wicket. But the tables then turned after Pretorius landed the breakthrough, with Mothoa then ripping through the top order to leave the coastal side on 52 for four. Captain Marques Ackerman (30) resisted for a while until he too fell victim to seamer Mothoa – the total then sinking to 97 for seven. De Swardt (46) then counter-attacked for the Dolphins to save them complete embarrassment, before the Shaun von Berg (2/13) wrapped up the tail, the visitors dismissed in 42.5 overs. The Knights opted against enforcing the follow on and Matthew Kleinveldt (14), together with Van Tonder (2) resumed batting, taking them to the close on 21 for none.... Read more...
NewsNovember 22, 2020
VAN TONDER TON POWERS KNIGHTS IN BLOEMMonday, 9 November 2020 Raynard van Tonder’s fifth career century handed the VKB Knights a powerful start to their round two 4-Day Domestic Series encounter against the Hollywoodbets Dolphins in Bloemfontein on Monday. The young right-hander, the competition’s leading run-scorer last season, struck an unbeaten 119 off 226 deliveries (11 fours, 1 six) to take his side to a strong day one score of 323 for seven at the Mangaung Oval. There were several starts from his team-mates, although no one else managed to kick on against a visiting attack that chipped away throughout the day. Ottniel Baartman ended as the pick of the bowlers in his first match against his former franchise with two for 69. But the day no doubt was tilted in favour of the Knights, who were convincing winners over the Warriors in the opening fixture a week ago. They won the toss and batted first in the Free State where round one centurion Jacques Snyman (35) and Matthew Kleinveldt (44) provided them with a quick-fire start of 76 in just under 13 overs. First-class debutant Lifa Ntanzi (1/54) was first to strike when he trapped the former leg before wicket, before the latter was taken out by Andile Phehlukwayo (1/44) just after the 100 was raised. Captain Pite van Biljon (39) then added 64 alongside Van Tonder for the third wicket, before the 22-year-old put on another 59 with Farhaan Behardien (39). Another new man Ruan de Swardt (1/32) and Senuran Muthusamy (1/25) accounted for the two veterans, with Keshav Maharaj (1/93) getting rid of Patirck Kruger (4) cheaply. Wandile Makwetu (0) and Shaun von Berg (25) fell to Baartman, before Migael Pretorius (10 not out) kept Van Tonder company till the close.... Read more...
NewsNovember 22, 2020
MOMENTUM AND CONSISTENCY KEY FOR TRIEGAARDTFriday, 6 November 2020 VKB Knights assistant coach JP Triegaardt believes that momentum and consistency are key if they want to build on their resounding start to the 4-Day Domestic Series campaign when they host the Hollywoodbets Dolphins in Bloemfontein from Monday. The Central Franchise claimed an emphatic 179-run win over the Warriors in round one of the first-class season that begun this past week. The result was set up by Jacques Snyman’s rapid record century together with a whole host of other strong performances with the bat by the home team at the Mangaung Oval. Their bowlers too played their role and Triegaardt says everyone should be praised for the professional opening display. “It was a good start and I don’t think you could have asked for a better one in a four-day game,” he said. “So we’re pretty happy with that. I must say as well that everyone deserves credit for that. “It was a big overall performance from everyone. Yes Jacques Snyman’s innings was an important one at the start, but everyone backed that up properly. “The bowlers put in the performance by making sure we restricted the Warriors to a total that was really low and that helped get over the line.” Their opponents this week, the Dolphins, also won their first game in style by thrashing the defending champions Imperial Lions by nine wickets in Durban. Both will enter the game on a high and Triegaardt concedes that how they build on round one will play a big role in how the competition starts to shape up. “Momentum is always key and I think that’s going to go with everyone we come up against,” he added. “Dolphins also won convincingly so they too will be up for it. They themselves are a good team and we saw some big hundreds from their players and strong performances from their bowlers. “So I expect a really hard game against them. We won’t take them or anyone for that matter lightly, I think ultimately it will boil down to consistency and that’s what we’ll be aiming for next week.” The Dolphins made a rare winning start to a red-ball campaign with a fine all-round showing at their home turf on the east coast. This will be much bigger test, though, for Imraan Khan’s charges as they attempt to win against an in-form home side, buoyed their new coach Allan Donald, and their own strong beginning to the 2020/21 term. “I think every team is strong in this competition,” the Dolphins coach said. “The Knights are a strong team as we saw in round one when they beat the Warriors. “They know their ground very well, they are high on confidence, so we’re expecting a tough contest and fierce battle. I think results in all the first games as well has made it an interesting start for everyone. So we’ll be up for it as well.” There were a few stand-out performers in that first game, batsmen Sarel Erwee (199) and Keegan Petersen (173) for their big centuries as well as Keshav Maharaj and Ottniel Baartman for sharing 11 wickets. “It was a big start for us, a strong start because the last few years we haven’t managed to begin well in the four-day competition, we were poor,” Khan said. “It’s something we’ve addressed by putting hard work into the pre-season and it’s just good to reap the rewards of that work.” Petersen and Baartman were made even special considering the fact that they were both debuting in the game. The two moved to Durban from the Knights and will be up against their old franchise in round two. “I don’t think we could have asked for better debuts from those two guys,” Khan added. “We always knew the potential that they’ve had, KP was in the last Test squad, so there’s real quality there. “Ottniel is a highly-skilled bowler so we knew the quality and it was fantastic for them that they were able to put in good performances in that first game.” The VKB Knights squad is: Duan Jansen, Jacques Snyman, Mbulelo Budaza, Mathew Kleinveldt, Alfred Mothoa, Raynard van Tonder, Andries Gouws, Pite van Biljon (capt), Grant Mokoena, Farhaan Behardien, Wandile Makwetu, Shaun von Berg, Patrick Kruger, Migael Pretorius. The Hollywoodbets Dolphins squad is: To be confirmed... Read more...
NewsNovember 22, 2020
BUDAZA TAKES THREE AS KNIGHTS SEAL OPENING WINThursday, 5 November 2020 Mbulelo Budaza claimed the three required wickets early on the final morning as the VKB Knights completed a resounding 179-run victory over the Warriors in their round one fixture at the Mangaung Oval in Bloemfontein on Thursday. Only 17 deliveries were sent down on day four, but that was enough for the hosts to wrap up the tail and dismiss the visitors for 186. Budaza ended with four for 47 in 13.5 overs, while opener Matthew Breetzke was left stranded on 77 (214 balls, 8 fours, 1 six). The Warriors had started the final day with their backs firmly to the wall at 173 for seven and there was little resistance from the tail. Mthiwekhaya Nabe fell from the first ball of play when he was caught behind off Budaza by Wandile Mawetu for five, with Marcello Piedt (4) following in the same fashion two balls later. Last man Basheer Walters (2) was then cleaned up in the next over by the fast bowler – leaving the Warriors all out in 76.5 overs. Migael Pretorius was the other key bowler for the Knights with three for 25 as the Central Franchise handed new coach Allan Donald a winning start to his tenure.... Read more...

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