FOLLOWING a title drought of over 20 years Amanzimtoti Cricket Club (ACC) broke through and were crowned KZN Castle Premier League Champions when they won their final fixture recently.

ACC and Delta Cricket Club were neck and neck prior to each team’s final match, and despite a loss on the day to Crusaders Cricket Club, ACC edged out the win on points.

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The win marks only the second time in the club’s history they have won the league. The team’s coach, Frank Fereirra, said, “This was actually a three-season vision when I started the coaching job at ACC. After coming very close last season, we started early July with our pre-season preparations. We worked hard on technical issues during the winter and set plans in place to be better at managing match situations, playing and trusting our game plan and keeping the squad mentally fresh for the entire season.

“We picked 16 players we felt could win the Premier League. It’s a very long season but the team approached the season with confidence and with every win it grew and so did the focus. As a coach I am very proud of this team and the improvement they have made over three seasons. I feel they are not the finished product yet and can get better and that will be the goal next season. It means a lot to the team and the club and I feel our community can be very proud on this group of players.”

The club was established in 1965 and has an expansive history. ACC committee member, Mark Dennill, said that this year’s triumph has brought the club to new heights.

“The future looks incredibly bright for this talented group of cricketers. This victory will go down as one of the club’s finest moments in its storied history,” said Dennill.

ACC skipper, Tegan Naidoo, spoke with pride about the hard work that has been put in over the past few years. He said, “The players have really pulled through. It’s been a team effort, and we’ve been through a lot together. I cannot thank them enough for the commitment they’ve shown. It hasn’t always been easy, but every member of the team has stepped up when it mattered most. This victory is as much for them as it is for the club and the supporters.”

Chairman, Shelton Grant, congratulated the captain and vice-captain, Jarryd Havemann, for their inspiring leadership on and off the field.

“Thank you to the committee for all your hard work behind the scenes. The sacrifice of your personal time is truly appreciated for the smooth running of the club. It is a privilege to work alongside you all. Thank you so much to our kit sponsor, Take n Pay, for your belief in our club and also for your support,” said Grant.

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