Under-pressure Tuskers face Dragons in decisive clash at the Oval

The Moothee Ram Tuskers, the only local professional sporting club competing in Cricket South Africa’s Division 1, return to home soil on Sunday in what is shaping up to be a decisive encounter in their season. The Men in Blue will host the North West Dragons in the CSA 1-Day competition at Pietermaritzburg Oval, with play set to begin at 9.30am. Survival in Division 1 will depend on turning promise into points in the weeks ahead.

KZN Inland Cricket CEO Jason Sathiaseelan acknowledged the urgency of the situation. “This is a crucial stage and effectively our final opportunity to ensure we remain in Division 1. The players understand what is at stake and are motivated to perform in this competition,” he told The Witness.

Sathiaseelan believes morale within the camp is strong, despite injury setbacks. “The spirit in the team is the best it has been, but we do have a few injury concerns. Cameron Shekleton, Matthew Urquhart and Michael Erlank are still nursing injuries, which does create challenges,” he said.

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Sunday’s opponents will present a stern test. The Dragons boast experienced match-winners and have consistently proven difficult opponents in domestic cricket. North West are a quality side with experienced players, so we are expecting a tough, hard-fought contest.

He stressed that management has provided the necessary support structures, with responsibility now firmly resting on the players and coaching staff to deliver results. “From a management perspective, we have done everything possible to assist the team. It is now up to the players and the technical staff to step up and produce the performances required. We want to do well in this competition.” The Tuskers’ focus remains firmly on the One-Day campaign, with key home fixtures scheduled against the Dolphins on March 8 and the Lions on March 18.

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