Former Protea, Farhaan Behardien made his veterans cricket debut for Ottoman Cricket Club with a man of the match performance against Hanover Park Cricket Club. Behardien, a veteran of 59 one day internationals and 38 T20 internationals for the Proteas made 59 from 31 balls to help Ottoman beat Hanover Park by 67 runs.

‘The invitation to play was extended last year already when I turned 40 but wasn’t ready to play again after dedicating half my life to the playing of the sport. I wanted to step away from the game and progress in my career post my cricket career but also give my body a break seeing that I put it through a lot of strain in those 20 years. I was anxious before the game like usual, butterflies of being out there again but fortunately played with guys I’ve known for years. There was some banter and just the general camaraderie during the game which I miss. A lovely way to ease back into the playing of the game, the mind is sharp but body still has to catch up. Hanover park hosted us well and thanks to them for the boeries after,’ said Behardien.

Meanwhile the runs kept on flowing in the first round of matches in round two.

Brackenfell openers Werner Moolman and Wiaan Smit made 103 not out and 101 (retired hurt) respectively as they posted 257 against Strandfontein who could only manage 88 in response.

The match between Green Point and new boys Milnerton went down to the wire with Milnerton winning by six runs. Milnerton posted 185 and restricted Green Point to 179 despite Andrew Sheel getting 122.

Another new team Rylands, maintained their perfect start to the season with a 34 run win against Cape Town. After posting 183/4, they bowled Cape Town out for 149. Mohammed Ebrahim top scored for Rylands with 51.

In the other two games, Pinelands beat Mitchells Plain by eight wickets and St Augustines beat Wynberg by six wickets.

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