POLOKWANE – The reigning champions of the Cricket South Africa T20 championship, Limpopo Impalas, have announced their squad for the 2024/25 cricket season, which commences in September.

The Impalas aim to defend their title by retaining key players who contributed to their success last season, including head coach Gordon Parsons.

The squad features former Pietersburg Hoërskool cricket first team captain Morné Venter alongside Dilivio Ridgard, Sizwe Masondo, Ludwig Kaestner, Kgaudise Molefe, Eldred Hawken, Lourens Steenkamp, Pootona Maphekgola, Jessie Albanie, Liam Peters, Sello Blessing, Daniel van der Merwe, and reigning cricketer of the year, Don Radebe.

However, the team will be without former captain Ruan Haasbroek, who has left for a cricket opportunity in Europe.

Tommy Phiri, CEO of the Limpopo Impalas, expressed satisfaction with the squad’s composition.

“We are happy with the squad. We have a lot of local players and experienced players who helped us to win the title last season. All the players will play in all the formats of the game. Our message to the players is that they must use the opportunity, remain disciplined, and approach every match with a positive attitude.”

As part of their preparations, the team will play friendly matches with other cricket franchises in the country.

“We have lined up friendly matches in August, and we believe by September the team will be ready.”

Haasbroek expressed his gratitude to the Limpopo Impalas management for trusting him with the captain’s armband and wished them well in the new season.

“I am excited to see what the future holds for this special team. Super grateful for each and every person that doesn’t get the recognition they deserve, from the staff to all the groundsmen. All the love and support is highly appreciated.”