Last Saturday, families, fans and spectators gathered in numbers at the Independence Oval in Popondetta town, Northern Province, to witness a historical show down in the Popondetta Cricket Association by a team that’s made record to have won all 12 matches through out the season and in the grand final.
The match between the Mari Knights Cricket Club Men’s team against Wanda Hoods saw Mari Knights chasing 113 runs for victory within 9 overs with 11 overs to spare. Mari Knights team, comprise of youths from the Marimari street, Bottom Town, registered both men and women’s team this season with both teams going into the finals.
The Mari Knights women’s team fell short of 46 points to Wanda Hoods women’s team chasing 111 points and scoped the runner up of they season grand final.
The Mari Knights men’s team scoped Player of the Match awarded to Cheetam Gaia for hitting 68 points from 30 balls and the Season’s Most Leading Wicket Taker awarded to skipper Russell Wakiawa.
Team captain Wakiawa expressed gratitude towards his team mates both men and women’s teams for their commitment and dedication this season.
“I also acknowledge the backing and support of the teams hardworking and dedicated executives who’s seen us through to the finals,” he said.
“I am proud of the boys, we’ve set a legacy for the province to have shown out to be the undefeated team this season and that is something we will always be proud of.
“Mari Knights Cricket Club is not a team, it a family and the love for the sport is what’s bonded us.”
He said the team looks forward to defending their title in the next season.