CMCA

The Clinton Moodley Cricket Academy’s Local Tournament, the CMCA Powerwise T20 League, commenced on Saturday, 3 May 2025, with a pair of captivating T20 encounters that set an electrifying tone for the competition.

At Scottburgh High School, spectators were treated to a nail-biting clash between the Green Mambas and the Red Devils, where exceptional fielding from both sides kept the tension high throughout. The Red Devils, having won the toss, opted to bowl first and their disciplined bowling attack, supported by sharp fielding, restricted the reigning champions, the Green Mambas, to a total of just 87 runs. Standout bowling performances came from Seth du Plessis, who claimed 2 wickets with an impressive economy rate of 4, and Luleka Chiliza, who took 1 wicket while conceding only 3.5 runs per over. The Red Devils’ fielding unit was equally impressive, with Luleka Chiliza executing two run-outs, and Callan Hammond, Seth du Plessis, and Tavarshen Reddy each contributing with a run-out. Zayden Nagdee also chipped in with a crucial catch.

Chasing a target of 88 for victory, the Red Devils faced a determined Green Mambas bowling attack. Maahir Khan spearheaded the Mambas’ efforts, taking 2 wickets with an exceptional economy of just 2. He was well-supported by Shivesh Moodley and Anton Bezuidenhout, both claiming 2 wickets with economy rates of 4 and 4.50 respectively, and Caleb Turner, who took 1 wicket with an economy of 5.33. Wicketkeeper and captain Rorke Harris was instrumental behind the stumps, taking two catches, while Caleb Turner also held onto a vital catch. Despite their efforts, the Red Devils fell just short, being bowled out for 79 runs, handing the Green Mambas an 8-run victory to kick off their campaign.

Meanwhile, at Scottburgh Country Club, another exciting battle unfolded between the CMCA Jaguars and the CMCA Lions, both all-girls teams from the Clinton Moodley Cricket Academy. The Lions won the toss and elected to bowl first. The Jaguars, batting first, posted a competitive total of 133 runs for the loss of 5 wickets in their allotted 20 overs. Valerie Duplooy led the Jaguars’ batting charge with a crucial 29 runs not out, while Stefanie Gerber contributed a valuable 13 runs, and captain Yajna Singh provided a solid start with 9 runs at the top of the order. The Lions’ bowling attack was spearheaded by Laaiqah Suleman, who took 2 wickets with an economy of 5.33. Saiesha Govender supported her with 1 wicket at an economical 4.17, and Misha Bramdev also claimed a wicket. Safiyyah Suleman showcased her fielding prowess with a direct-hit run-out.

Facing a target of 134, the Lions displayed impressive batting resilience. Captain Hadassah Fredericks anchored the innings with a magnificent unbeaten half-century, scoring 50 runs, while Safiyyah Suleman contributed a valuable 10 runs. The Lions successfully chased down the target in 17.4 overs, securing a 5-wicket victory. Despite the loss, the Jaguars’ bowlers put up a spirited fight. Evie du Plessis impressed with 2 wickets at an economy of 5.2, while Hayleigh Stanton, captain Yajna Singh, and Stefanie Gerber each claimed a wicket.

Following an exciting first week of the CMCA Powerwise T20 League 2025, the CMCA Lions currently lead the log standings with 2 points and a net run rate of 2.283. The Green Mambas occupy the second spot, also with 2 points and a net run rate of 0.400, setting the stage for an exciting tournament ahead.