Imperial Lions Women’s head coach Shaun Pretorius said the team had impressed during their Women’s Top 6 League in Johannesburg from October 23 to 28.
Pretorius said, “There’s no denying that five matches in six days were tough on the players. However, there was real character shown by all of our players to execute the game plan and act accordingly.
“The two games we lost, we could easily have won, but that’s the nature of the game. We will have to learn to be more clinical in certain areas of our game.
“The bowlers stood out and carried the team. There was a tremendous effort by all in the field, which contributed to pressure being built, resulting in our opponents making the errors.
“Our top batter was Ayabonga Khaka. She really stood out and played the situation well with an average of 35.”
Other noteworthy performances were batters Sharné Mayers with an average of 24, 60 and Nonkululeko Thabethe with an average of 22, 20. Tumi Sekhukhune made her debut for Imperial Lions on October 24 versus Northerns, having moved from North West last season.
Top wicket-taker was Yolani Fourie with 10 wickets in five games and Ayabonga Khaka with six wickets was the most economical bowler for Imperial Lions. Tumi Sekhukhune, Jameelah Shaikjee, Lehlohonolo Sardick all took seven wickets each.
“In my opinion, the best wicketkeeper of the BSE was our very own Palesa Mapoo, who has shown tremendous potential thus far – the future does look bright for this youngster,” he said.
The team will focus largely on strength and conditioning and conclude with a fitness screening to measure the improvements during the next six weeks.
The next provincial game is in February; however, a lot of club matches will be played from November 13.
