As defending champions of the One Day Cup, The Imperial Lions are the 2021/ 22 CSA One Day Cup Champions for the second consecutive year after a tense final match of the season against their neighbours, Momentum Multiply Titans.
The Pride’s One Day Cup journey was the ultimate in teamwork, with continuous noteworthy performances across all three formats of the game. Players performed, staff excelled and sponsors supported from the first ball to final over.
In the build-up to the season, the team summited Mafadi, South Africa’s highest mountain at 3 446m, the peak of which borders South Africa and Lesotho.
The four-day hike tested even the strongest of wills. There were tears, triumphs and definitive teamwork, which no doubt contributed significantly to the testing season that has been, said Lions Cricket CEO Jono Leaf-Wright.
“That pre-season build-up far exceeded expectations. Players experienced mental and physical fatigue. But how symbolic that experience has been of our season: the boys became a closer unit, a team that last night conquered the 50-over cup despite the ups and downs.
“Our performance indicated ‘The Lions Way’: never give up, team first and care. We lost many a player because of National Duty this season, something we are extremely proud of, but also something that tests your pipeline, as new players are required to step up, and step up they did. With the team blended with youth and experience, the season was filled with great learning but always great unity from this special group,” said Leaf-Wright.
Captain Dominic Hendricks said, “What a phenomenal victory. Chasing 319 in a final was a mammoth effort, and I am extremely proud of the boys. We really pulled through. We accomplished something that will be remembered for many years. The first half of the season was quite disappointing, not featuring as much as we would’ve liked to in the various competitions.
“This one is for the fans. We’re delighted to have won a trophy for them and take great pride in putting a smile on the faces not only for those who attended the game, but for those watching at home too. We couldn’t have done it without them.”
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