THE Jeffreys Bay Cricket Club has triumphed as the 2024/2025 Heatherbank Corporate Cricket League Fifth Division Spring League Champions after bowling out their opposition, Gqeberha-based business, Aspen, for 123 runs in 19.3 overs on February 22 in Gqeberha.
As previously reported, the Jeffreys Bay Cricket Club was founded in September 2023 by Ruan Thomas after he noticed the need for a cricket club that provides people of all ages a platform to showcase their talents at no cost.
The cricket club currently has 55 members, of whom 28 are actively involved.
They also make use of the cricket pitch at Victory Christian School, where they practise on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Since the start of 2024, the club has participated in the Heatherbank Corporate Cricket League in Gqeberha multiple times and recently won the summer finals against Aspen.
“After winning the toss and electing to bowl first, we bowled out the opposition for 123 runs in 19.3 overs,” said Thomas. He mentioned that chasing a target of 124 runs turned out to be more challenging than they had expected, but they successfully reached the target with just one ball remaining.
“Hearts were racing, and the stress levels were high. Thankfully, the dedication and hard work paid off in an incredibly close victory,” said Thomas. “I would like to give a massive thank you to all the players and supporters who made this season possible.”
Top performing batters:
. Ruan van der Walt – 30 runs, not out, from 23 balls
. JD Cripps – 18 runs from 13 balls
. Digby Beyleveld – 16 runs from 12 balls
Top performing bowlers:
. Danie van Wyk – four wickets for only two runs in 1.4 overs
. Chris van der Westhuizen – three wickets for 12 runs in two overs
. Ruan van der Walt – one wicket for only two runs in two overs
Despite establishing the cricket club only one year ago, Thomas said that they were fortunate to receive an invitation to participate in the esteemed Pineapple Tournament, set to take place in Port Alfred from March 8 to 15, which they gladly accepted.
With fewer than two weeks before the tournament begins, he said that they have been embarking on various fundraising initiatives and have raised R13 000.
Thomas said that they also have a raffle at the price of R100, which includes a ladies’ smartwatch sponsored by Gabriël Jewellers.
The draw will take place on February 28 at Gabriël Jewellers, Fountains Mall.
“We have been able to pay for the accommodation and we have nearly enough food. We are now waiting for the sponsors of the shirts to confirm, and then we should be good to go,” said Thomas.
For more information or to purchase a raffle ticket, contact Ruan Thomas at 079 744 3535.
