The return of the senior men’s cricket side, the ITEC Knights, to the elite division, is set to bolster the sport in the Free State. The team will compete in Division 1, following their promotion to top-flight of domestic cricket.
The team got relegated to the lower rank, Division 2, after surviving a challenging season. The journey to regain the team’s status in the top rank after exceptional performances across all formats begins, with their securing two final spots, and earning themselves a well-deserved promotion back to Division 1.
Cricket South Africa (CSA) has congratulated the Knights on securing their top status.
The CSA domestic structure, implemented three seasons ago, introduced a dynamic system aimed at enhancing competitiveness and nurturing talent across the country. The recurring automatic promotion and relegation system ensures a fair and equitable platform for teams to strive for success.
Pholetsi Moseki, chief executive officer (CEO) of CSA, remarked that the team’s return will have a positive impact in the sport in the province.
“The Knights’ return underscores the competitive nature of our domestic cricket landscape and the opportunities it affords our member teams. Their promotion reaffirms the strength and depth of talent within our cricketing community.
“We wish them all the best as they prepare to compete in Division 1, carrying with them the hopes and aspirations of their fans and supporters, ready to write the next chapter in their cricketing journey,” said Moseki.
Johan van Heerden, CEO of Free State Cricket (FSC), has expressed pride in the team’s regaining promotion.
“The ITEC Knights have shown incredible determination and skill in reaching this milestone. Their promotion to Division 1 is a testament to their hard work and the high standards they set for themselves.”
“Relegation was a tough experience, but it served as a learning opportunity for the team. They adapted their approach and built a stronger, more cohesive unit as a result. Our main goal is to establish the Knights as a competitive force in Division 1.
“We are focused on developing our players and investing in talent to ensure we remain at the highest level.
“We are confident in the Knights’ abilities, and we will continue to support them in their journey to success in Division 1, as we believe they will thrive in this new chapter,” said van Heerden.