The stakes are rising in the YesPlay Pro20 Cup, with the Catch Prize increasing from R2 million to R3 million as the competition enters the Super 8 stage, where eight teams will battle it out for a place in the semifinals.
WSB Eastern Storm and Garden Route Badgers are the only Division 2 teams to progress to the Super 8 stage, earning the opportunity to test themselves against some of the country’s leading domestic sides.
With home fixtures on the horizon, both teams are calling on their local communities to turn out in support, with fans also standing a chance to win R3 million through the Catch promotion.
Eastern Storm begin their Super 8 campaign against neighbours DP World Lions at DP World Wanderers Stadium on Wednesday, while the Badgers host Momentum Multiply Titans at the Recreation Ground in Oudtshoorn on Thursday, before welcoming Eastern Storm on Saturday.
Badgers captain Janneman Malan said, “We encourage the Oudtshoorn community to come out and support us during our two home matches against quality opposition.
“We hope to put on a great show and give our supporters something to cheer about. Fans also have an opportunity to Catch R3 million through the promotion, so come down to the ground, enjoy the cricket and get behind the team,” Malan said.
Eastern Storm will be on the road this week before returning to Benoni to host their home fixtures in early November.
Captain Chris Britz, commented, “Having Division 1 teams come to Benoni makes this an exciting opportunity for us. Many of our players grew up on the East Rand watching cricket at the WSB Willowmoore Park, so it would be special to have the local community come out and support us on home soil.
“We hope to see the stands filled with passionate supporters as we give our best and fight for strong results,” Britz said.
YesPlay Pro20 Cup Super 8 fixtures and tickets are available at cricket.co.za and at participating stadia around the country.