The Mpumalanga Cricket Union (MCU) has officially approved the inclusion of Mpumalanga in the Veterans Cricket Association of South Africa (VCASA), a significant milestone for the province. This means that almost all provinces are now represented in VCASA.
Roger Moult, chairman of VCASA, expressed his enthusiasm about Mpumalanga's addition, stating that it was the final step in a long journey. VCASA, an ancillary member of Cricket South Africa, now has men’s leagues running in twelve regions, including the newly added Mpumalanga.
The association oversees interprovincial and club championship tournaments and participates in International Masters Cricket (IMC) tournaments and World Cups as the Proteas Veterans in the Over-40, Over-50 and Over-60 categories.
Mpumalanga will participate in the next Over-40 interprovincial tournament scheduled for 2025. The province’s Veterans Cricket team will be selected from three districts: Ehlanzeni, Gert Sibande, and Nkangala. These districts offer opportunities for cricketers who are young at heart to compete in local and provincial tournaments as well as friendly matches across Mpumalanga.
In the Ehlanzeni district, the Lowveld Mambas have made a strong impression in the local winter league. The team, comprising veterans aged 40 to 54, has won both of their opening matches. They defeated White River by 25 runs and LVCC by 7 wickets, showcasing their skill and experience against younger and highly competitive teams.
Despite some players returning to the game after a long hiatus, the enthusiasm and commitment are palpable. The Lowveld Mambas have demonstrated that experience can triumph over youth, with strategic field placements and varied bowling techniques contributing to their success.
With 67 members in the Ehlanzeni side alone, ranging from ages 40 to 65, the growth of veterans cricket in Mpumalanga is promising. Players who are interested in joining are encouraged to connect on the Facebook page Mpumalanga Veterans Cricket for more information.
This development could be the spark needed to showcase the cricketing talent in Mpumalanga on a larger stage, affirming the province's place in South Africa's cricketing landscape.