From Top left : Ethan Kasaval, Liam Maharaj, Ethan Chetty, Jordan Govender, Syon Sahadew, Aiden Jacobs, Nkanyezi Gumede, Sayush Rambally, Brayden Debipersad, Joanna Govender, Christiano Murugas and Hriday Rooplal
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Phoenix Cricket Club's U11 team stormed into the semi-finals of the eThekwini Metro Cricket Union T20 tournament with a stylish victory last weekend.
Their latest statement of intent came in a hard-fought 32-run victory over Spartans Sporting at Athlone Park Primary in Toti, a performance underpinned by disciplined bowling and a gritty opening stand.
Sent in to bat, the Phoenix U11 side posted a competitive 106 for seven from their 20 overs. Opener Christiano Murugas anchored the innings with a patient 27 off 49 deliveries, holding one end together as wickets tumbled around him. Spartans' bowlers kept the scoring in check, but valuable late contributions from Hriday Rooplal and Aiden Jacobs nudged Phoenix past three figures.
Spartans began their pursuit with intent. Arnav Haiduth raced to 22 off just 11 balls, crunching five boundaries to leave Phoenix sweating at 25 for one after 2.3 overs. But the momentum swung decisively once the Phoenix attack found their lines.
Jordan Govender produced a Player of the Match performance, ripping through the middle order with figures of four for 15. Leg-spinner Ethan Kasaval strangled the scoring rate, conceding just six runs in his four overs while claiming three wickets at an economy rate of 1.5. Syon Sahadew then mopped up the tail with three for 17 as Spartans folded for 74 in the 18th over.
It was the second time the ten-year-old Govender has claimed the match award in his budding career. He described the recognition as "very exciting", adding that "it is good to be number one". A fast bowler by trade, Govender counts Proteas wicketkeeper-batter Quinton de Kock as his favourite player.
A learner at Grandmore Primary, Govender has always been drawn to the team ethos of the game. He describes cricket as "a good place to be, a good sport and lots of fun", and believes the discipline it demands helps sharpen his focus in life.
He places great emphasis in his run-up to the wicket, but insists warming up properly is just as vital. "Stretching my muscles, such as touching my toes, is crucial to prevent pulling a muscle. It can be tough to move if I skip my stretches," he explained. He also values a sharp wicketkeeper behind the stumps, someone who can help him "read the pitch".
The Phoenix Cricket Club U11 team have remained undefeated in the eThekwini Metro Cricket Union T20 tournament currently underway.
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Coach Shedan Murugas beamed with pride at his side's unbeaten run. "We are extremely proud of the team's achievement to date," he said. "Hard work and dedication, both on and off the field, together with the support of our parents and community, is key."
Phoenix Cricket Club has been a fixture in the community for 30 years, dedicated to nurturing local talent. Club president Bradley Chetty said the club offers free coaching to keep youngsters engaged in healthy sporting activity.
For those interested in joining, contact secretary Shannon on 072 636 2150, Zaheer on 083 706 8175, or Bhavesh on 069 536 8508.