The Central Gauteng Lions (CGL) is the custodian of all cricket activities in the greater Sedibeng, West Rand, Vaal and Johannesburg areas. CGL through the Highveld Lions team has resolved to raise awareness and assist in fundraising initiatives for people living with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This will be a year-long 2019/2020 campaign inclusive of various media and fund-raising activities.

“We have a thrilling T20 season ahead both on and off the field, and what better way to amplify these efforts by helping those in need,” says Marketing and Communications Manager for Central Gauteng Lions and Highveld Lions: Wanele Mngomezulu.

“The CSA T20 Challenge is a tournament where South Africa’s best show the rest: It really does set the domestic scene alight with great viewerships and attendances – and thus a perfect platform for us to create greater awareness of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Today’s Lions Invitational Golf Day kick starts this campaign with our T20 tournament commencing on Sunday 7 April at home against the World Sports Betting Cape Cobras. Throughout the month-long tournament, our team will wear autism branded armbands on their left sleeve. We have also planned various on-the-ground activities including an educational drive, a fund-raising dinner, stadium announcements, social media, interviews and numerous media partnerships,” says Mngomezulu.

In addition to the above, the Highveld Lions will dedicate their 2019 Mandela Day (67 minutes) to supporting the Randburg Clinic School with various needs. For the upcoming 2019/ 2020 cricket season which takes place from September 2019 – April 2020, Highveld Lions will continue to dedicate their matches to raising ASD awareness and assist in various fund-raising initiatives.

“After our early exit from the Momentum One-Day Cup we are looking forward to the CSA T20 Challenge. We believe we have the exciting players that will make us competitive in this format. We are also delighted that we can use cricket for good – in this case, to raise awareness and to raise funds for people living with Autism Spectrum Disorder,” said Central Gauteng Lions Chief Executive Officer: Greg Fredericks.

“As a team, we are disappointed with our results in the Momentum One-Day Cup but there are a lot of positives to take into the T20 challenge and we will continue to work hard to ensure we compete well in the competition. We welcome back some of our team members who proudly served our national team: Rassie van der Dussen, Dwaine Pretorius and Reeza Hendricks. We are looking forward to continuing to make a difference and raise awareness in people living and affected by autism spectrum disorder.” commented Highveld Lions Head Coach: Enoch Nkwe.

Highveld Lions CSA T20 squad: Temba Bavuma - Captain, Rassie van der Dussen – Vice-Captain, Nandre Burger, Bjorn Fortuin, Beuran Hendricks, Dominic Hendricks, Reeza Hendricks, Wihan Lubbe, Mangaliso Mosehle, Wiaan Mulder, Aaron Phangiso, Nono Pongolo, Delano Potgieter, Dwaine Pretorius, Migael Pretorius, Kagiso Rapulana, Ryan Rickelton, Malusi Siboto, Nicky van den Bergh.

- Cricket SA