Gugulethu cricketers honoured at awards ceremony

Lonwabo Marele|Published 10 months ago

Former chariperson at Gugulethu Cricket Club, Gerald Mxolisi Njengele was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award.

The spirit of excellence and community were captured at the annual Gugulethu Cricket Awards, at the NY49 sports hall, on Saturday, May 25.

Gugulethu celebrated the outstanding achievement of its players for the 2023/2024 cricket season.

The event was a momentous occasion, bringing together players, club members and the local community members.

While cricket was the topic of the day, Gugulethu also honoured those who had significantly contributed to the sport.

The club’s former chairperson, Gerald Mxolisi Njengele, was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award in acknowledgement for his exceptional contributions to township cricket – for Gugulethu Cricket Club and the broader cricket community.

Chairperson at Gugulethu Cricket Club, Vusi Ntoni congratulated all the recipients and the community, as well as the Gugulethu Sports Council, for attending the event.

“The club extends its deepest gratitude to everyone who attended the ceremony and contributed to making it a memorable event. The support from players, their families, and the community is vital to the continued success and growth of Gugulethu Cricket Club,” he said.

“As the season comes to a close, we encourage everyone to enjoy the well-deserved break and look forward to seeing everyone back for the next season. The club remains committed to nurturing talent and fostering a love for cricket in the township,” said Ntoni.

For more information about Gugulethu Cricket Club and their upcoming events, contact Vusi Ntoni on 076 965 6265 or email vntoni@gmail.com

Mbulelo Shane Nkomo’s sister, Phumza Nkomo received the batsman of the year award on his behalf. The captain is away on player-coach duties in Denmark. She is standing next to the vice-chairperson, Ntsikelelo Nkwelo, left, and the chairperson, Vusi Ntoni.

Sphamandla Hlakudi alongside the Department of Cultural Affairs and Sports’ Thabo Tutu, club donor, Dr Xolile Vena and former club captain, Mthuthuzeli Magobiyane.

The young player of the season award was received by Khayona Zweni.

The batter of the season was also awarded to Ayola Panya.

The junior bowler of the season went to Siyamthanda Msimana.

Gugulethu Cricket Club also showed massive appreciation to one the community’s game changer, Dr Xolile Vena.

First team wicketkeeper, Olwethu Mathabeni, was awarded the most improved player this season. The 16-year-old became a prominent figure in the senior team.

Mbulelo Dube recieved the allrounder of the season award.

All smiles, Sphamandla Hlakudi was hailed as the game changer of the season.

Former Gugulethu Cricket Club chairperson, Gerald Mxolisi Njengele awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award in acknowledgement for his exceptional contributions to township cricket – for Gugulethu Cricket Club and the broader cricket community.