Proteas all rounder Vernon Philander says he is looking forward to playing in front of the ‘hard to please’ PPC Newlands crowd after being drafted to join the Cape Town Blitz for this year’s second edition of the Mzansi Super League T20 (MSL T20) tournament.
The Western Province Cricket and Cape Cobras stalwart says he is well aware of the expectations playing at your home ground brings to the fans.
However, he adds that he is looking forward to helping the Blitz bring the cup home this time around.
Following a disappointing inaugural year with the Durban Heat, Philander says he is also looking forward to playing under Blitz captain and Proteas teammate Quinton de Kock.
He adds that from the outside looking in, the Blitz coaching staff, led by former Protea Ashwell Prince, seemed to be always on the mark last season.
In another surprise move for current Proteas players, all-rounder Dwaine Pretorious, who was not retained by the Jozi Stars, was signed by the Paarl Rocks. Pretorious says he is excited to join the Mother City based side.
The MSL title winner with Jozi Stars last year, Pretorious, believes that there will also be a lot of players hoping to use the MSL T20 tournament to put their hands up for Proteas 2020 T20 World Cup squad selection.
Nelson Mandela Bay Giants captain Jon-Jon Smuts also confirmed that the excitement has really been building up with all the plans and preparations for the Draft.
The Eastern Cape side has again favored the youth in their signings having acquired the services of Matthew Breetzke, Onke Nyaku, Nandre Burger and Akhona Mnyaka.
Smuts says he is expecting the youngsters to dominate the tournament again this year. – Report by Thando Gqamane
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