Phalaborwa XI’s Nkuna shines despite Hoedspruit 100 final loss
Nkuna, from Namakgale, said he didn't expect to finish as the tournament's top bowler and simply focused on giving his best in every game.
PHALABORWA – Phalaborwa XI Cricket team’s unbeaten run came to an end in the final of the inaugural Hoedspruit 100 tournament at Hoedspruit Air Force Base on Sunday, July 19.
After winning all four of their group matches, Phalaborwa XI fell short against the hosts, who produced a dominant batting display to claim the title.
HSA’s batting proves too strong
Phalaborwa won the toss and elected to bat, posting a competitive 143/7 from their 100 balls. Benjie Mathebula top-scored with 34 off 26 balls, while Sakil Patel added 30 from 25 deliveries. HSA’s bowling attack fought back strongly, with Alex Godrich claiming 4 wickets in his 20-ball spell.
In reply, HSA comfortably chased down the target, reaching 145/2 with 15 balls to spare. Kyle Pretorius anchored the innings with an unbeaten 64 off 40 balls, while Jacques Wolmarans blasted 26 from just 10 deliveries to secure victory. Phalaborwa XI finished as runners-up.
Nkuna’s 15 wickets earn top honours
There was still reason to celebrate for the visitors as Kunene Nkuna was named the tournament’s best bowler. The 22-year-old from Namakgale claimed 15 wickets in five matches.
“I didn’t expect to finish as the best bowler,” Nkuna told the Herald.
“I just focused on giving my best in every game without thinking about individual awards.”
“Incredible achievement” – Patel
Team captain Juper Patel praised his side’s performance despite the defeat.
“We’re proud of what we’ve achieved. The team was only formed in June for this tournament, so winning all four matches before reaching the final is an incredible achievement,” he said.
Patel credited HSA’s strong batting for the victory and said his team would return stronger next year.
Black Mambas claim third place
The third-place playoff saw Black Mambas defeat Serurubele Development. Black Mambas posted 153/4 before restricting Serurubele to 127/5.
The inaugural tournament featured eight teams from Hoedspruit and Phalaborwa, who competed over several weekends.
Limpopo Impala Cricket Club Board president Sakkie Kwakwa presented the trophies to the finalists.
