adminLOCAL cricket academy, Dumisani Mankunzini Cricket Initiative is set to make a return to Botswana this weekend following an invitation to participate in a tournament by Cubs Cricket Academy. The games will be played on Saturday and Sunday in Gaborone.
The Cubs Cricket Academy official wrote a letter to DMCI’s director Dumisani Mankunzini requesting them to participate in “a weekend of superb cricket” to take place on 17 and 18 October. The tourney is set to involve under-nine, 11 and 13 teams.
Mankunzini, whose career in the sport was brought to an abrupt end due to a back injury, said the teams will play Twenty20 games. This will be second time DMCI would be visiting the Trymore Taruvinga-coached side.
In the letter, Taruvinga said each team should be comprised of 12 players. Mankunzini welcomed the tour saying it would provide the much needed exposure for his charges.
“This is a great opportunity for the young players as they get the chance to compete with other players from a different environment and besides creating friendships, I believe they can learn a lot during this tour that will assist them become better players.
“While every match is played to win, I believe the exposure that comes from playing outside the country will have a positive impact on the boys,” said Mankunzini.
Last year DMCI sent an Under-13 side to Botswana. DMCI hosts the annual Baines Junior Dumisani Mankunzini Winter Cricket Festival that is aimed at identifying talent among young cricket players who play at primary schools.
The local academy, which was established in 2011, is one of the main thrust in grassroots development.
derick.khumalo
Online Reporter