HSA turns forfeit into valuable pre-season preparation
Despite a second consecutive forfeit victory, HSA made the most of the day by arranging an internal match to sharpen their cricket teams.
HOEDSPRUIT – Hoedspruit Sports Academy (HSA) was awarded a second consecutive forfeit victory on Sunday after Potties Old Boys informed the club they would not be travelling for their scheduled Limpopo Premier League fixture.
Although the cancellation was disappointing, the academy moved swiftly to ensure the day remained productive. An internal match was arranged between the Promotional League side and the Premier League team, providing valuable game time ahead of crucial upcoming fixtures.
The Premier League side underlined its strength and depth, dominating from the outset. Batting first, they posted an imposing total, demonstrating composure and discipline at the crease.
The Promotional League team, meanwhile, benefited from the opportunity to test itself against higher-level opposition, gaining important exposure to the intensity and standards required in the top division.
HSA coach Mickey Buyst said the club chose to focus on the positives despite the setback.
“It is obviously not ideal to receive points this way; we would always prefer to earn them on the field,” said Buyst. “But the reality is, we cannot control those situations. What we can control is how we respond.”
He added that the internal fixture proved beneficial for squad depth and preparation.
“The Premier League side got valuable time in the middle, and our Promotional team gained exposure to a higher standard of cricket. With important matches coming up, every over counts. It turned out to be a very worthwhile exercise for both teams.”
With several key fixtures approaching, HSA will now turn its focus to the weeks ahead.
Premier League fixtures
1 March – Nkowankowa Cricket Club vs Hoedspruit Sports Academy at Southern Cross Oval
8 March – Nirvana Cricket Club vs Hoedspruit Sports Academy at Southern Cross Oval
15 March – Hoedspruit Sports Academy vs Louis Trichardt Cricket Club at Louis Trichardt
22 March – Hoedspruit Sports Academy vs Hornbills Cricket Club at Unicorn in Tzaneen
29 March – Hoedspruit Sports Academy vs Eagles Cricket Club at Pietersburg High School
19 April – Louis Trichardt vs Hoedspruit Sports Academy at Southern Cross Oval
Promotional League fixtures
1 March – Louis Trichardt vs Hoedspruit Sports Academy at AFB Cricket Oval
8 March – Mahodi Cricket Club vs Hoedspruit Sports Academy at AFB Cricket Oval
15 March – University of Limpopo Cricket Club vs Hoedspruit Sports Academy at AFB Cricket Oval
22 March – Giyani Cricket Club vs Hoedspruit Sports Academy at AFB Cricket Oval
