CRICKET NEWS - The Cricket South Africa (CSA) Hubs Challenge is set to make a return this month, showcasing young talent emerging from the country's cricket hubs.

The first leg of the tournament was hosted at Willowmoore Park in Benoni from 22 to 25 March.

The competition will intensify with the second leg in George from 28 to 31 March, featuring Boland, Border, Eastern Province, Western Province, Garden Route Badgers, KEI, Free State and Northern Cape.

The 2024 CSA Hubs Challenge will see teams battle it out in 50-over matches, providing an ideal platform for emerging cricketers to showcase their abilities.

CSA chief executive officer Pholetsi Moseki said the Hubs Challenge exemplifies CSA's commitment to fostering talent and providing aspiring cricketers with invaluable opportunities to shine on the national stage.

"Through initiatives like these, CSA aims to create a cricketing ecosystem that nurtures and sustains the passion for the game among its players."

The team of the Garden Route Badgers:

Enathi Kitshini (captain - Thembalethu High), Igcobe Kitshini (Imizamo Yethu Secondary), Liviwe Bawuli (Thembalethu High School), Ducayne Plaatjies (Bridgton Secondary), Keano Coericuis (vice-captain; Bridgton Secondary), Josh Karelse (Protea High), Shirwin Plaatjies (Aurial College), Lastio Williams (Aurial College), Jaywinn Golaith (Bridgton Secondary), Keanu Witbooi (Sao Bras High), Joshua Diamond (Sao Bras High) and Kurt Botha (George High).

The head coach is Elridge Booysen and the assistant coach is Angus Roelfse.

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