eKasi Challenge heads to Soweto

Braamfischer Sports Complex will play host to the second Momentum eKasi Challenge match next month when the bizhub Highveld Lions host the Unlimited Titans in what has now become an annual pre-season clash.

Initiated last year, the eKasi Challenge was created as a way for three major cricket brands, the Lions and the Titans franchises and sponsor Momentum to join forces to bring professional cricket to the community and to actively support cricket development at grassroots level.

As with last year, players are not charging match fees and are giving freely of their time.

Last year’s hosts, the Titans hosted the inaugural match at the Mamelodi Oval outside Pretoria.

The challenge is held annually, with the venue alternating between Pretoria and Johannesburg.

The match will be played on August 22.

Lions coach Geoffrey Toyana will have everything to play for.

Not only are the Lions defending their title but Toyana hails from Soweto, so a win on his home turf will be unprecedented and a double reward.

The Lions have had six weeks of focussed pre-season preparation for the coming season and the team is looking good to compete in this season opener.

“The Lions thoroughly enjoyed participating in this event last year and we are really looking forward to hosting it this time round. This event is a big part of growing cricket in new and unprecedented ways and spreading the love of the game. The players enjoyed the experience last year and the friendly rivalry we have with our neighbours will set a fascinating backdrop to the event,” said Greg Fredericks, chief executive officer of Lions Cricket.

The Braamfischer Sports Complex will receive attention in preparation for a match at this level.