CRICKET: Titans eager to retain GNext title

GNext Cricket Youth Challenge (Sept 14-24) 

Two-time reigning champions, Lakhani Motors Titans are out to defend their title at the third edition of the GNext Cricket Youth Challenge that got underway on Wednesday at the Lugogo Oval.

"We are cut out for the job, the players are fit and really looking forward to defending the title" said 18-year-old Jonathan Amanya, Lakhani's opening batsman during the launch of the cricket showpiece.

The outstanding players outs in the tournament stand a chance of being considered for the U19 Boys team that will participate in next year's U19 World Cup qualifiers as Uganda seeks for a third appearance at the world stage.

The founders of the GNext Academy; former captain Davis Karashani and Dennis Musali know a thing or two about the World Cup.

The duo participated in the 2004 and 2006 World Cups and they will be taking the boys through professional lessons and knowledge during the course of the event.

"The boys always yearn to play while so young so we give them this as a way of keeping them interested" said Musali.

The third edition will have a total of four franchise teams including ABC Samurai, Keshwala Knights, Pak Stallions and two time holders Titans compete for the shield.

"We are ready to continue engaging in the development process of cricket in the country. We are here to stay" said Ali Waqas, director of Pak Stallions who are one of the sponsors.

The event is also sponsored by Uganda Cricket Aassociation, ABC Stiles & Bathz, Aziz Damani, Lakhani Motors, CASE Hospital, Lato Milk, Mehta Group and Amari Couriers.