The University of Johannesburg’s (UJ) second men’s cricket team emerged victorious in the 2024 Black Widow Premier B tournament, defeating Wits University at the DP World Wanderers Cricket Stadium in Sandton. This win follows closely on the heels of the senior men’s team’s triumph in the Enza Premier A League, winning the championship just two weeks ago.

Electing to bowl first, UJ restricted Wits to a modest total of 99 runs, dismantling their batting lineup within 20 overs. Callum Croome shone with the ball, taking three wickets for the Orange Army. With a clear target to chase, UJ’s batting unit chased down the Wit’s  and made 100 runs in 17.5 overs, losing eight wickets.

Several young UJ players made significant contributions. UJ captain Linda Ndlovu was the top scorer for UJ with 30 runs. Sam Lephoto made a valuable contribution of 20 runs while Declan Osborn and Clayton Pather provided crucial support with 14 runs each.

UJ Cricket Club Coach and Manager, Mr. Siyabonga Sibiya, expressed his delight at the team’s victory. He commended the players, their support staff, and the university community for their backing. He said, “I’m very happy for the club, the players and the people behind the players as well as the University delegates for the support and the fans who came all the way to watch the boys play their closing match.”

Sibiya added, “That was a nice way to close the season and for the boys to stamp their authority for the work done this season. The victory showcases what the players can do and I hope they carry the same energy into the upcoming USSA championships.”

The nail-biting encounter saw UJ win the match by two wickets at the end with 2.4 overs left.

Looking ahead, the UJ cricketers will now take a well-deserved break before gearing up for the new season and the 2024 USSA competitions.

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