Makula’s 50, bowlers too hot for Vukani
ZONDEKI Cricket Club were crowned champions of the 2018 Amacal’egusha Historical Tournament on Thursday afternoon by defeating Vukani Cricket Club in an exciting final.
The championship match took place at the Amacal’egusha Oval just outside King William’s Town.
A large crowd of excited fans cheered on the teams as they fought out a tense final – that ended with Zondeki triumphing by three wickets.
“It was awesome, it was spectacular, what other adjectives can I use, it was wonderful, fantastic,” exclaimed a thrilled Amacal’egusha president Madoda Mandita.
“Look at the mood, look at the fans, look at them all enjoying the fun of the day.
“This is a family occasion in the rural heartland, what a paradox, this is poetry in action. It was truly a great effort from Zondeki over three days of exciting cricket action to eventually claim the title.”
“I was really happy with the boys,” said Zondeki captain Avumile Mnci.
“The team did their job. In the past three years we haven’t managed to finish off well and this year we got it together until the end.”
Vukani batted first scoring a below-par 165 all out in 38.5 overs. They were unable to get any decent partnerships together with the highest being 38 runs for the third wicket. Yamkela Oliphant (26), Thobela Gqangeni (28) and Athi Mfazwe (22) all got starts but were unable to kick on.
They were also indebted to lower-order batsman Ntsika Dwanya, who top-scored with a well-played unbeaten 39.
On the bowling front Camagu Mbangi starred for Zondeki picking up 3/24,
A team of the tournament was named after the final featuring 14 players: Zolisa Ngcuka, Bayolise Tunyiswa, Mlungisi Ngece, Jongile Kilani, Malwande Zamo, Camagu Mbangi, Ntabozuko Nqam, Nelson Setimani, Lolwethu Dekeza, Siphamandla Mandara, Luphumlo Matyila, Elesizwe Mandita, Lukholo Gwanqa, Siphelele Saliwa.
Aviwe Mfiki was named coach of the team and Bandile Nyweba manager.