T20 Preview
Can Mustangs retain their title?
The Spring 2017 T20 league, which starts on Sunday 5 March, promises to be keenly contested, with some exciting new teams challenging the more established clubs.
Ten teams will take part, split into two groups of five on a geographical basis. The winner of each group will play the runner-up of the other group in the semi-finals, with the two winners progressing to the final on 14 May. Meanwhile the teams finishing 3rd, 4th and 5th in each group will play their opposite number to decide the minor positions. This format will give each team five games (six for the finalists).
The eastern group will feature last year’s winners, Mustangs, as well as the current 40-over champions, Sri Lankans, together with Nicosia Tigers, PWRR Dhekelia, and new team Nicosia Thunder, formed partly from previous Kazepis and Fellows players.
In the western group Limassol Gladiators look strong, comprising several ex-Kazepis players with some handy additions. Limassol Sri Lanka Lions are a new team who will be keen to impress. The other teams are the improving RAF Akrotiri, the inconsistent Moufflons, and Epi Lions who seem to have lost some of their better players.
Due to the lack of regular umpires, all teams are required to provide umpires to games as set out in the fixture list.
CCA Committee has decided that, for players’ safety, helmets must be worn by batsmen, keepers standing up, and close fielders (except slip / gully).
We are also concerned about slow play, and there are increased penalties for teams who do not bowl their overs in time. Details have been circulated to clubs and the playing conditions can be viewed via the link above right.
Results and match details will appear here as the season progresses.