24 April 2014
In a move that is set to boost cricket on the African continent and kick-start the South African domestic season in style, six teams from Africa and six South African franchises will contest the Global Softech Sixes at SuperSport Park in Centurion in September.
South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Namibia, Zimbabwe and Kenya will feature in a six-a- side-format with the African Cup Challenge title up for grabs from 4 to 7 September.
The Unlimited Titans, the Nashua Mobile Cape Cobras, the Sunfoil Dolphins, the Chevrolet Knights, the bizhub Highveld Lions and the Chevrolet Warriors will also go toe to toe in a Franchise Challenge at SuperSport Park, also from 4 to 7 September. Both challenges will form part of the Global Softech Sixes.
‘A fun element’
The concept of the tournament was initiated and conceptualised by The Unlimited Titans. “This tournament is set to add a fun element that might appeal to a broader audience, which, in turn, might lure more fans and future players to the royal game,” Jacques Faul, the CEO of franchise, said in a statement.
“The Global Softech Sixes also offers a unique marketing opportunity for the game of cricket to sport communities in the rest of Africa, while also strengthening relationships with our cricketing partners on the continent,” said Faul.
Broadcast throughout Africa
Cricket fans throughout Africa will be able to watch a live television broadcast of the event on SuperSport.
The format will see batting teams limited to five overs each, with five of the fielding teams six players allowed to bowl one over each – a concept that will ensure frenetic action.
‘A fun element’
Although six-a-side cricket is not a new idea, the Global Softech Sixes event, with a distinct African and South African flavour, makes it both a local and international competition, which should get the South African domestic season off to an explosive start.
Leela Ramesh Yemineni, the Chief Executive Officer of Global Softech Solutions, said the competition was an ideal opportunity for the company to become involved in cricket, especially because it reached into Africa, where the company is expanding its business.
SAinfo reporter
