The Cricket South Africa (CSA) 4-Day Series is currently underway in its second division, with Division 1 teams set to kick off their red-ball campaign this Saturday.
In the upcoming round, all top division teams will be in action: Gbets Rocks will host Momentum Multiply Titans in Paarl, Western Province will meet DP World Lions at Newlands, and Dafabet Warriors will travel to Potchefstroom to take on the North West Dragons.
Defending champions of Division 1, Hollywoodbets Dolphins, are preparing to defend their title against AET Tuskers at their home ground, Hollywoodbets Kingsmead.
Imraan Khan, Head Coach of the Dolphins, underscored the team’s commitment to refining their red-ball skills:
“We have invested significant effort in refining our red-ball skills, considering it the pinnacle of domestic competition. Our objective is to secure the title once again this season.
“The competition is fierce, and we are well aware of the challenges posed by the formidable teams in the series. Achieving positive results in the four-day format demands consistent, high-quality cricket, and we are prepared to deliver just that,” said Khan.
Northern Cape Heat, champions of Division 2 for two consecutive seasons in the red-ball format, began their campaign with a draw against Eastern Storm last Sunday.
Mark Charlton, their Head Coach, expressed optimism about the season ahead, “We approach this season with great excitement, recognising the numerous possibilities and opportunities to fiercely compete for a third consecutive title. Our preparation has instilled confidence in the team, and we aim to maintain our momentum in this format.”
Acknowledging the demands of professional cricket, Charlton added, “Pressure is inherent in the professional game, but it’s also the essence of being part of a team. While we acknowledge our shortcomings in the 1-Day format, we understand that four-day cricket is the ultimate expression of the game. It tests player's skills over an extended period, emphasising the significance of an attacking brand of cricket, especially in facing formidable bowling attacks.”