The University of Johannesburg’s (UJ) Cricket Club won top team prizes at the 2024 Lions Cricket Awards ceremony in Sandton on Saturday, 8 June 2024. Both the UJ ladies’ and men’s teams walked away as winners in various categories for the 2023/24 season.

The senior men’s team took the coveted Enza Premier League 50 Overs award. The second team, which plays in the Premier B league, won three awards, namely; Enza Premier ‘B’ League Time Award, Black Widow T20 Competition Award, and the Lions Premier League Overall Award. The UJ ladies walked away with the Saturday One Day Championship Award.

Speaking on the UJ accolades, coach and manager of the Cricket Club Siyabonga Sibiya said, “The club has been through a lot of ups and downs in the past season. We have been blessed to have a committed group of players, dedicated groundmen and a meticulous coaching staff. All these put together with a good environment has led to what is a relatively successful season.”

He added, “We know we have a lot more to do and achieve soon, and in the season to come. So, our focus has already shifted to the next challenge and goals. We are thankful to the institution and UJ Sports leadership for the support, encouragement, and guidance.”

UJ’s Ryan Maritz became the star of the show in the final showdown of the 2023/2024 Enza Premier ‘A’ Club League as UJ were crowned champions with a 337/5 win over the GH Old Edwardians (336/7). Maritz was named Player of the Match having made 135 runs, the highest of the match, in a great combination duet with captain Kieron Croome.

The UJ second men’s cricket team emerged victorious in the 2024 Black Widow Premier B tournament, defeating Wits University by two wickets at the DP World Wanderers Cricket Stadium in Sandton.

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