Dream Sports T20 Junior Bash shows tremendous potential
THE Dream Sports T20 Junior Bash came to a thrilling conclusion last weekend with youngsters relishing the opportunity to display their skills in a competitive environment.
After six weeks of nail-biting action, Chatsworth Sporting beat Amanzimtoti Cricket Academy in the U15 final, while Dream Chasers Reservoir Hills (DCRH) beat Sporting in a low-scoring U13 final.
In front of a packed Road 114 grounds in Chatsworth, Amanzimtoti won the toss and opted to bat first. It was a decision they were left to rue as they were skittled out for just 69.
Brayden Sambhu, Shalin Naicker and Delryn Munsamy picked up two wickets apiece on a pitch suited to the bowlers.
Sambhu, who was recently named the U15 KZN Cricket Union player of the year, then blasted 42 off just 16 balls to help his side race to a sevenwicket win.
“Brayden showed excellent leadership qualities and is certainly one for the future,” said tournament director Jason Sathiaseelan.
Sporting batted first in the U13 final, but failed to get going with the bat from the get go and were bowled out for a paltry 45.
DCRH chased the total down with ease to claim an emotional win for a team playing in memory of their former assistant coach, Kasavan Moodley, who died two weeks ago.
“It was tough for the boys, but they wanted to win the tournament for Kas. They are so happy to have gone all the way,” said coach Elvis Govender.
“The boys played very well throughout. In the final they were clinical.
“This is a team with a lot of potential for the future,” he added.
Now with the first edition done and dusted, Sathiaseelan says their plan is to ensure next year’s tournament is bigger and better.
“This tournament has shown tremendous potential in its first year. Parental support has been phenomenal and teams that participated this year have already indicated their interest for next year,” said Sathiseelan.