Faith Ndou
MASVNGO CITY-Scorpions Cricket Club have stamped their authority in the Masvingo CABS T20 Tournament after registering two emphatic victories including a massive 133-run triumph over Poly Panthers Cricket Club at the Sports Club over the weekend.
Scorpions delivered one of the standout performances of the season when they posted a formidable 199/2 in 20 overs against Poly Panthers. In reply, Poly Panthers were bowled out for just 66 in 13.4 overs, handing Scorpions a commanding 133-run victory
The momentum continued for Scorpions as they secured another win, this time beating Knights Cricket Club by 16 runs. Scorpions put up 121/7 in their allotted 20 overs before restricting Knights to 105/9 sealing back-to-back victories.
In other matches played, Knights Cricket Club claimed a seven wicket win over Methane Lions. After bowling Methane Lions out for 93 in 17 overs, Knights comfortably chased down the target, reaching 99/3 in 13.5 overs.
Methane Lions also recorded a narrow two wicket victory over Poly Panthers Cricket Club successfully chasing 107 to finish on 109/8 in 14.5 overs.
However, Poly Panthers Cricket Club is deliberately giving game time to school boys from various secondary schools across the province to help them gain valuable exposure and match experience. The club has encouraged more school boys to join so that they can get game time, stressing that the club is committed to nurturing young players and that all school going boys are welcome.
Speaking of the tournament, Southern Rocks General Manager Emmanuel Dube said the main aim of the T20 competition is to prepare local teams for higher level cricket while promoting an entertaining brand of the game.
“The T20 tournament is designed to be a fast-paced, exciting competition that brings out the best in players and entertains fans. Its primary objective is to prepare our teams for national-level competitions, showcasing top talent and providing a platform for players to gain experience and exposure,” said Dube.
He added that the tournament plays a crucial role in cricket development within Masvingo.
“The T20 tournament will have a significant impact on cricket development in Masvingo by providing young players with game time, exposure and the opportunity to develop their skills in a high-intensity environment. It will help shape their game, fitness and performance, ultimately contributing to the growth of cricket in the province,” he said.
Dube emphasized that cooperation among stakeholders is key to the tournament’s success.
“The tournament will have a positive impact on cricket development if everyone puts the game first. Coaches, players and administrators need to work together, make sacrifices and prioritise the growth of the game. By doing so, we will create a strong foundation for the province’s cricket future.”
He noted that the main objective of staging the competition is to grow the game across the province and benefit all cricket stakeholders in Masvingo.
“The tournament provides opportunities for teams to develop and for players to gain experience, ultimately contributing to the province’s cricket growth,” he said.
Cricket is played in three main formats: First-Class cricket, which runs for four to five days; the One Day International (50-over format), completed in a single day and T20, the shortest format with each innings lasting about 85 minutes.
A total of 12 matches have been lined up this season with each game requiring two white balls, bringing the total number of white balls needed for the tournament to 24.
Upcoming Fixtures
28 February
Scorpions vs Methane Lions – 09:30
Knights vs Poly Panthers – 13:45
01 March
Methane Lions vs Scorpions – 09:30
Poly Panthers vs Knights – 13:45
07 March
Scorpions vs Poly Panthers – 09:30
Methane Lions vs Knights – 13:45
08 March
Knights vs Scorpions – 09:30
Poly Panthers vs Methane Lions – 13:45
With all matches set to be played at Masvingo Sports Club, the tournament continues to gather pace as teams compete for provincial honours.
