Mzansi League is pushing the game to new heights

THE Mzansi Super League has captured the attention of cricket-loving South Africans in a way that domestic cricket has struggled to do in recent years.

It’s a product that battled to get off the ground last year but, with sturdier hands from Cricket SA, this time round we have a lift-off.

All six teams are laden with star international players from around the world but what has been encouraging is that locals have been the stand-out players thus far.

Reeza Hendricks is the leading runscorer and Sri Lankan spinner Jeevan Mendis is the highest wicket-taker, but the remaining spots among the top five are occupied by South Africans.

Hollywoodbets Dolphins all-rounder Senuran Muthusamy says the league is exactly what the sport needed.

“I think it’s been great. I think South African cricket has been longing for this sort of thing, and I’m happy that it has got off the ground,” he said.

“The tournament is gaining momentum, viewership and a following. Best of all is that people who don’t normally follow cricket are now interested.

“With the action being broadcast on SABC, it is reaching a broader audience and that is great for the development of the local game.”

Muthusamy admitted to being dismayed when he went unpicked during the player draft process. He was the Dolphins’ most consistent player across all formats last season and even landed their Player of the Year award.

“I was very disappointed not to get picked up, but as destiny would have it I injured my finger two weeks later.

“It is good to see players that I play with in action. It is also a chance for them to get exposure and to work with internationals.”

As a teenager, Muthusamy spent many afternoons watching his heroes play franchise cricket at Kingsmead. Last week, he presented new caps to the KZN Coastal team that will do battle in the upcoming Coca-cola Khaya Majola Week.

He believes the Mzansi Super League will inspire young cricketers.

“I would have loved to have grown up with something like this.

“I’m sure it means a lot to them to see their local heroes (in action) and I know it is something they will aspire to,” he said.