Having paused for the 2024 festive season, the Telkom Future Cup got back underway a short while ago, with the Telkom Academy facing up to the Gauteng Rural team in Meyerton. This hard-fought match served as an opportunity and platform for the two teams to prepare for the various competitions up ahead.
The Gauteng Rural team are currently in action in the Inland Rural competition hosted in the Vaal, whilst the Telkom Academy team are set to play their first official 3-day and 1-day fixture in 2025 against the Titans Colts at Wits University from Thursday.
Hosted in the Vaal, Telkom Academy coach Kurt Human said that the area is notorious for gathering the crowds and gaining interest in the game.
“Spectators are ever present here, showing tremendous support to their local teams and players. As a team, we are always eager to play in the Vaal as it is an exciting place to play cricket, surrounded by passionate crowds. Even though the conditions are always tough (in terms of the heat as well as tough batting conditions), it is exactly what we need in order to get players out of their comfort zones.”
Gauteng Rural team captain JP Kok commented: “It is always exciting for our players and spectators to see us playing competitive matches against teams beyond our immediate area. New competition and venues help to attract crowds whilst we continue to enhance the culture of cricket in the area. Thorough preparation for our upcoming competitions is key to success, and with so much talent on hand, players need exposure in order for them to grow and showcase their ability. Telkom allows us to achieve this.”
Cricket Services Manager for Lions Cricket, Reuben Mandlazi is in agreement saying that he is excited about the direction the Union is headed with the Telkom Future Cup programme.
“Through this initiative, we are opening doors by providing unrivalled opportunities to our future superstars – across a whole host of levels. The impact an initiative such as this one will have – both on an individual level as well as team performances, is immeasurable. Many coaches and scouts will be watching all teams and players with a close eye, tracking their growth, one ball at a time. We are privileged to be a part of this.”
Matches to look forward to include the Club XI v Telkom Academy; as well as University of Johannesburg v Telkom Academy. Should you be keen to track the progress of the players or teams please keep an eye on the Lions' social platforms. All games are free to attend, and spectators are warmly encouraged to come support.
Result
Lions Telkom Academy – 263/3 beat Gauteng Rural – 158/10, by 105 runs.
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