The KZN Cricket Union concluded its successful 2023/24 season with a positive Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Friday. The season was marked by numerous milestones, especially the historic victory of the Dolphins Ladies in the CSA One-Day Cup, making them the first professional women’s team to win this prestigious title. This achievement highlights the growing strength and influence of women’s cricket in South Africa.
The Hollywoodbets Dolphins men’s team also had an impressive season, reaching their fourth consecutive T20 final and nearly securing a spot in the 4-day challenge final. Their consistent performance underscores the team’s resilience and competitive spirit. Additionally, the Dolphins’ ability to produce national-level players was evident, with several members making significant contributions to the Proteas men’s and women’s teams.
Further showcasing the depth of talent within KZN Cricket, the Hollywoodbets Dolphins Blind team won the national competition, Rhythm DHS Old Boys captured the national club championship for ladies, and Hollywoodbets Crusaders took home the national Community Cup. These victories highlight the success of KZN Cricket’s inclusive programs, ensuring opportunities for players across all demographics.
Youth development remains a cornerstone of KZN Cricket’s success. The pipeline is flourishing, with various youth teams dominating national competitions. Numerous boys and girls have been selected for national representation, thanks to strong grassroots programs such as KFC mini-cricket, hubs, and schools initiatives. These programs provide a solid foundation for nurturing young talent and ensuring the future success of KZN Cricket.
A significant highlight of the past season was the celebration of Hollywoodbets Kingsmead Stadium’s 100-year anniversary. KZN Cricket surpassed their initial goal by hosting 125 events throughout the season, a testament to their commitment to commemorating this historic milestone. Kingsmead Stadium also successfully hosted the entire KFC T20 series between the Proteas and Australia, a T20 international against India, and sold out three of the four T20 Internationals, reinforcing its status as a premier cricket venue.
Governance stability continues to be a strong suit for the KZN Cricket Union. Yunus Bobat began his second term as President, supported by Vice-Presidents Busi Mbhele and Daniel Govender. The Board was further strengthened with the addition of new members Thahir Fakir, Sihle Sibaya, and Zinhle Ndlovu, joining Feroza Asmall and Ntokozo Mkhize as independent members.
In his address at the AGM, President Yunus Bobat expressed his gratitude to stakeholders for their unwavering support. He highlighted the achievements of the past season and outlined the union’s future goals. “Our successful AGM marks a significant milestone for our organization. I want to thank our shareholders, board members, and employees for their dedication. We are excited about the future and remain committed to delivering value for our stakeholders,” Bobat said.
CEO Heinrich Strydom also emphasized the season’s significant growth and financial stability. The KZN Cricket Union once again received an unqualified audit report, a testament to their sound financial management. Strydom remarked, “The 2023/24 season will not only be remembered for the 125 events hosted to celebrate a century of cricket at Hollywoodbets Kingsmead but also for the immense growth and prosperity experienced by the entire Dolphins family. Holistically, we are in a phenomenal space and 2024/25 will bring another opportunity for us to continue on this journey towards sustainable excellence.”
The success of the 2023/24 season has set a high standard for the upcoming 2024/25 season, which will begin domestically in September. Hollywoodbets Kingsmead Stadium is once again primed and ready to host major cricket events, including exciting international matches. The continued success of KZN Cricket is a source of pride and inspiration, showcasing the organization’s commitment to excellence both on and off the field.
The achievements of KZN Cricket over the past season highlight the union’s robust development programs, strong governance, and commitment to celebrating its rich history. With the ongoing support of its stakeholders and the dedication of its players and staff, KZN Cricket is well-positioned to achieve even greater success in the future. The union’s efforts to foster talent and provide opportunities for players at all levels will ensure that cricket in KwaZulu-Natal continues to thrive.
In conclusion, the KZN Cricket Union’s 2023/24 season was a testament to the organization’s hard work, dedication, and strategic planning. The numerous successes across various teams and competitions, along with the celebration of Hollywoodbets Kingsmead Stadium’s centenary, have set a strong foundation for future achievements. As the union looks forward to the 2024/25 season, the entire cricket community in KwaZulu-Natal can anticipate more memorable moments and continued excellence.
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