The Crusaders North Coast U11 cricket team were crowned league champions after fantastic final performance at Umhlali Prep on Sunday.

The youngsters beat Chatsworth Sporting Club by five wickets to claim the EMCU Junior Cricket League 15-over title.

Chatsworth chose to bat after winning the toss and posted 91/7, restricted by excellent spells of 2/3 from Jagger Edwards and 2/19 from Jack Lloyd. Despite losing four early wickets in reply, the Crusaders rallied well through Brody Pietersen (30) and Judd Hulson (29 not-out) to chase down the target in 12.4 overs.

“The boys played excellent cricket against strong opposition and fully deserved to win the league,” said coach Lebo Moeana.

Affiliated with Crusaders Cricket Club in Durban North, the team includes U9, U10 and U11 players from Umhlali Preparatory School, Ashton International College Ballito and Darnall Primary School. Moeana said the triumph reflects the growing strength of junior cricket on the North Coast, highlighting how players from different schools can combine effectively to produce exceptional results.

“Winning the league was a very emotional and educational experience for me. We’ve built a strong team culture and improved consistently throughout the season,” said Moeana, who coaches at Umhlali Prep and runs the STG Cricket Academy at the school.

“I want to thank all the parents who supported me and trusted me with their young ones, as well as Umhlali Prep for equipping me with the tools to achieve something so special.”