Club cricket lifts covers

Delta will target an upset over log leaders Crusaders when the Premier League resumes this weekend

AFTER a two-week break the Castle Premier League hosted by the KZN Cricket Union resumes today.

The first half of the season produced some thrilling action and teams will be looking to hit the ground running after enjoying a few mince pies during the holiday period.

Crusaders and Berea Rovers share the lead on the table with 24 points but the impressive King Cetshwayo Cricket Club lurk behind them, four points off the summit of the table.

Rovers welcome Clares to their home patch while King Cetshwayo will travel to Durban to play African Warriors at the Kingsmead Oval.

Clares have only lost once from five games this season, spearheaded by the excellent Abdul Razak whose 15 scalps makes him the highest wicket-taker in the competition.

Elsewhere, Crusaders head to Overport to play Delta at Tills Crescent.

Delta enjoyed a promising first half of the season with three wins from six matches.

Sticking to their policy of promoting youth, the club boasts an exciting group of players.

Junaid Syed has been a breath of fresh air for Delta. The 20-yearold, wicket-keeper batsman has 196 runs to his name, a high score of 86 and the best average (48) in the competition. His athleticism and safe hands behind the stumps have seen his stock rise quickly.

“Junaid has done remarkably well so far. His good form also pushes other youngsters in the squad so it is great for the team,” said club manager, Yusuf Wariyawa.

“He strikes the ball well and looks comfortable in the middle. There is a lot to come from this youngster,” he added.

Wariyawa says the club is in a building phase and believes they can transform into a real force in the coming years.

“Right now it is about sticking to our beliefs. We have a talented bunch who are enjoying their cricket at the moment. There is a good vibe and energy. That will continue in 2019,” he said.