The Botswana Cricket Association (BCA) has announced that they have become the second sporting code to contract players after football. The association has already identified seven men and women who will become the first pioneers.
BCA Vice Chairperson, Sumod Damodar, expressed optimism that this will work out as planned, adding that they had to make sure the contracts were mutually beneficial to both parties.
When asked about the criteria used to select players, Damodar said performance and the help of the coach was helpful in the selection. He further added that there were several reasons why they were chosen and they will find more financial avenues and contract more players.
The contracted players from the male side include Karabo Motlhanka, Thatayaone Tshose, Mmoloki Mooketsi, Valentine Mbazo, Phemelo Silas, Boteng Maphosa and Katlo Piet. From the women’s team there is Laura Mophakedi, Shameelah Mosweu, Florence Samanyika, Tuelo Shadrack, Goabilwe Matome, Oratile Kgeresi and Onneile Keitsemang.
Botswana National Olympic committee (BNOC) chairperson, Tuelo Serufho, said BCA has come up with a great initiative. “We are glad to witness such an initiative in Cricket, and we hope the players will give it the seriousness it deserves. I am positive that with players who have exposure from international competitions, they will share it with their fellow players to take Cricket to greater heights,” he says.
Meanwhile, the women’s team will travel to Rwanda to participate in the Kwibuka women’s T20, which is scheduled for the 7th to the 19th of June. Countries which will participate in the tournament are Botswana, Brazil, Germany, Nigeria, Kenya, hosts Rwanda, Tanzania and Uganda. Damodar noted that Brazil and Germany will be joining this tournament for the first time, hence making it an international event unlike in the past.
“The team is prepared and will leave for Rwanda on the 5th of June. We have been tasked with choosing an elite player who will stay behind for a week for a tournament that will be played by players from different countries. We have chosen Mophakedi to remain behind and take part,” added Damodar.
However, Damodar noted that in the competition Botswana is ranked low in all countries that are participating. “Playing globally will give us more competition and we hope our players will do well,” said Damodar.
He further highlighted that the next six months will be very busy for them, with several regional and international tournaments lined up for both men and women.