Master blaster Roy out to win it with Bay franchise

Nelson Mandela Bay Giants overseas marquee star Jason Roy is hoping the franchise will be carrying momentum by the time he links up with his new teammates in early December.

The Mzansi Super League tournament officially starts this week, with the Giants opening their campaign with a trip up country to play Jozi Stars at the Bidvest Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg on Saturday at 7pm.

Englishman Roy is excited about the all-new event but will only join the Giants in early December as he has commitments in a United Arab Emirates T10 tournament.

“I am extremely excited about the tournament and being a part of it all. I am sure it’s got a huge future.

“I am eager to meet my teammates,” Roy said.

“I believe this is a good side. With such a strong squad and exciting young players, I don’t see why we can’t go all the way [and win the tournament].

“Twenty-over cricket is all about momentum, so hopefully we will start well and get some good confidence early.”

Until Roy arrives for duty, the Giants will pin their hopes on the likes of fellow-England international Ben Duckett, fast bowler Sisanda Magala and the match-winning duo of JonJon Smuts and Christiaan Jonker.

Wily Smuts will captain the outfit in this first edition, while also counting on the experience of Heino Kuhn and guile from Aaron Phangiso, with Chris Morris also set to return from Proteas duties next week.

However, the Durban-born Roy will be the main focus as he aims to showcase why he is one of the most sought-after limited overs players.

“I am feeling good. It has been a busy summer and I’ve played a fair amount of cricket leading into the Mzansi Super League, so I am hopeful of having a big impact.”

Tickets for the tournament cost from R50 each across Ticketpro (www.tickepros.co.za), Jet, Spar, CNA and Caltex retail outlets around the country as well as at various stadiums.