Fifteen days ago, Roger Moult was looking to smash the latest curve-ball thrown his way in a very short space of time to the rafters.
It was the day of the Over-50s Cricket World Cup final at Newlands Cricket Stadium, where hosts South Africa would meet England in the culmination of 16 days of incredible Veterans Cricket.
True to form, there was another issue to deal with. Unseasonal rains had come to Cape Town and were threatening to wash out the decider but, thankfully, play eventually got underway and Giles Ecclestone led England to victory in near darkness, despite Alan Dawson’s best efforts.
The weather was but one of many hurdles that tournament director Moult had to clear to make the 2023 World Cup a reality and now, a fortnight and many stress-free beers later, he can finally reflect on what was a brilliant tournament.
“14 teams, 56 matches, 23 venues in a 16-day period … it was a very successful tournament culminating in a Cup Final at Newlands between South Africa and England,” he says.
“Logistically it was challenging to navigate a period which included the biggest timed cycle tour, the wettest March in decades, Cape Town traffic, road closures and political unrest, but the 75-person team of volunteers ensured that all 350 players, officials and supporters had a fantastic time in our beautiful city.”
Were there any particular moments that stood out?
“The wonderful atmosphere at Groot Drak [for the first South Africa vs England match] stood out, as did the incredible match-day offerings from Milnerton, Bergvliet, Camps Bay High School and Reddam schools. Milnerton, in particular, went out of their way to make it an unforgettable experience.
“But my highlight, aside from the opening and closing ceremonies and the spontaneous, impromptu karaoke evening at Cape Town CC after the Wales vs England match, was the Proteas vs New Zealand semifinal at Western Province CC. The quality of the play notwithstanding, it was brilliant to see the levels of support from the locals, and the camaraderie and team spirit among the players. A truly unforgettable experience!”
About Evergreen Lifestyle
Established in 2008, Evergreen Lifestyle is South Africa’s premium retirement brand with seven operating villages in the Western Cape and Gauteng, and a further six in the pipeline. The business began with a vision to change the retirement landscape in South Africa, offering a partnership for life based on five key pillars: physical security, financial peace of mind, continuous care, a sense of community and exceptional hospitality.
You’ll find Evergreen’s award-winning retirement villages in the most beautiful parts of the country, at the end of sun dappled country lanes, perched on majestic mountain slopes, and within walking distance of our beaches, rivers, and wetlands. And you’ll find vibrant fun-loving communities enjoying the finer things in life – like good food, great company, lasting friendships, and a sense of belonging that is enabled by the resort style facilities and amenities on offer.