Anoyolo Joninga, 17, will be pitching in his first senior knockout final representing Hamilton Softball Club at the Turfhall Softball Stadium on Sunday March 16.
Image: Picture Supplied
The Cape Town Softball Association's Major League Knockout final between Hamilton Softball Club and Southside Heat will be extra special in Athlone on Sunday March 16.
Hamilton Green is chasing their third trophy of the season after winning the CTSA Men's Major League and Grand Challenge last week.
In the First Division, 17-year-old Anoyola Joninga, from Khayelitsha, will make his final debut at Turfhall Softball Stadium at 11am for Hamilton Grey. They will face Pirates Softball Club in the First Division Knockout final.
The Grey team will also face Pirates in the Grand Challenge final on Wednesday, March 12.
Head coach Adrian Langeveldt said, the Hamilton Black team was withdrawn from the league due to Ramadaan, as six of their 12 players are Muslim.
"Out of respect and consideration for the holy month of Ramadaan, we have made the decision to withdraw Team Black(ML) from all softball competitions. This decision was necessary due to the significant number of Muslim players (6 out of 12) within the team," he said.
"We're proud of our Team Green for their phenomenal season, winning the league competition after a strong comeback from two early losses. They also dominated the Grand Challenge, remaining unbeaten throughout," he said.
Langeveldt, however, is aware of the unique challenge the Major League Knockout final presents at 3pm on Sunday.
"Our opponents, South Side Heat finished runners-up in the league and we respect their skills and determination. From a coaching perspective, our strategy focuses on scoring early and building a strong foundation. This approach helps settle our pitching and puts pressure on the opposing team's hitters," he said.
Langeveldt said they have an experienced coaching staff to support their players' mental preparation.
Ultimately, the outcome will depend on which team demonstrates more desire, hunger, and determination to win.
"Our First Division side will face Pirates, the division winners, in their knockout final. We're excited to see our young talent, 17-year-old Ano, take the mound for his first knockout final appearance. With valuable experience gained from playing with Team Black (ML Div), Ano will be a valuable asset in this encounter. We're expecting a strong challenge from Pirates, and we're looking forward to an exciting competition," said Langeveldt.
Anoyolo Joninga in action in the Grand Challenge semi-finals for Hamilton Green. They beat Devonshire Rovers to advance to the final on Saturday March 15.
Image: Lonwabo Marele
Bradley Weeder of Hamilton Green connects sweetly with the ball and bat to advance his team into the finals of the Grand Challenge Competition.
Image: Lonwabo Marele
Moses Molaba is ready for the First Division Knockout final. He will be representing Hamilton Green against Southside Heat.
Image: Picture supplied