Central Gauteng Lions Announce Over-40s IPT Squad for Gqeberha Tournament

Central Gauteng Lions Veterans Announce Strong Squad for 2025 Over-40s Inter-Provincial Tournament

Johannesburg, 15 May 2025: In a proud moment for South African veterans cricket, the Central Gauteng Lions Veterans Steering Committee has officially announced a well-balanced and experience-rich 16-member squad for the upcoming Over-40s Inter-Provincial Tournament (IPT) set to take place in Gqeberha from 18 to 24 May 2025. The announcement underscores the depth and structure of the veterans’ cricket pipeline in the province, and marks an important chapter in the Lions’ ongoing commitment to inclusive and lifelong participation in the sport.

The tournament will feature seven provincial teams, including DP World Lions, WSB Western Province, Border, Momentum Multiply Titans, Eastern Storm, Eastern Province, and Hollywoodbets Dolphins. Over seven action-packed days, players will compete in three 45-over matches and three T20s, followed by finals for each format.

Lions Squad Blends Experience, Depth, and Championship Pedigree

Zaheer Hoosen will manage the team, with Yusuf Bulbulia returning as head coach. At the helm is Yasser Ditta, a seasoned all-rounder who not only led Lions Cricket during the 2023 IPT but also represented Proteas Over-40s in the victorious 2024 World Cup campaign in Cape Town. His vice-captain is Brandon Buckley, another standout veteran and World Cup-winning top-order batter.

Ditta, expressing pride in leading the squad once again, highlighted the group’s rich diversity in skill and experience. “While welcoming some new blood this year, the team is not short on match awareness and situational composure. These are seasoned cricketers who understand the nuances of veteran cricket, and we’ll lean into that strength when the pressure moments arrive,” he said.

With players like Zander de Bruyn, a former Protea and Lions professional, anchoring the middle order, and bowlers like Aziz Variawa and Christoff Visser offering reliable pace and spin options, the Lions squad appears well-rounded and tactically versatile.

Proven Performers and Key Contributors to Watch

Batting firepower will come from several fronts. Buckley brings top-order aggression and tournament pedigree. Ahmed Bharoochi, the top run-scorer in the Central Gauteng Veterans League over the past three seasons, is expected to be a linchpin in the middle order. The composed yet dangerous Khaalid Moothosamy adds a match-winning dimension, capable of adapting to different formats, while Zander de Bruyn lends gravitas and adaptability from his professional background.

On the bowling front, skipper Yasser Ditta will once again be a primary weapon, having led wicket charts in both the veterans and Premier League 50-over competitions. Variawa, the leading wicket-taker over the last three years in the CGL circuit, provides consistency with the ball, while Christoff Visser offers precision and control.

All-rounders like Shaan Hussain and EJ Van Niekerk provide the ideal glue for T20s and one-dayers alike able to turn games with either discipline and shift momentum with clutch performances. Their ability to contribute in pressure situations, particularly in the middle overs, is expected to be a significant asset across the tournament.

Lions Cricket and Veterans Pathway: A Commitment to Lifelong Cricket

In his statement, Reuben Mandlazi, Cricket Services Manager for Lions Cricket, commended the selection, calling it a moment of pride for the union. “We are delighted with the team that has been selected. It represents not just talent but also the ethos of Lions Cricket grit, determination, and community. We look forward to watching them compete and bring more accolades to the union.”

Echoing the sentiment, Frank Auger, Chair of the Central Gauteng Lions Veterans Steering Committee, emphasized the importance of continued support from the union. “Lions Cricket has set the benchmark in veterans’ cricket development. From governance structures to tournament participation, their backing enables our players to compete at the highest level even beyond their professional years.”

The union’s policy of supporting veterans age-group cricket (Over-40s, 50s, and 60s) ensures that pathways for life-long cricket remain open. This includes structured leagues, committee oversight, and consistent development opportunities across clubs in Gauteng.

Lions Eye Redemption After 2023 Setback

After falling short in the 2023 edition, the Lions are clearly headed to Gqeberha with silverware in sight. Ditta admitted the team had unfinished business, but insisted that adaptability and playing conditions would dictate outcomes. “We know the challenges of playing in the south slower wickets, coastal wind, and unfamiliar grounds. But we’ve prepared with intent and aim to play with the fighting spirit that has always been associated with Lions Cricket.”

The diverse squad, made up of players from clubs like Marks Park, Old Edwardians, Delfos, Pirates, Wanderers, and Rising Sunsets, showcases the reach and competitiveness of the local veterans circuit. It also underlines the healthy state of club cricket across Gauteng, which remains the foundation for many of these veterans’ continued excellence.

Fixtures: Lions Begin Campaign Against Titans

The Lions will open their 2025 IPT campaign with a 45-over clash against Momentum Multiply Titans at Gelvandale CC on 18 May. A double-header of T20s follows on 19 May against Titans and Eastern Province. The 45-over fixtures continue against Border and Western Province on 20 and 22 May respectively.

The tournament’s final two days 23 and 24 May will feature group matches and finals for both formats. With form, pedigree, and motivation on their side, the Lions Veterans are expected to be one of the top contenders this season.