The AET Tuskers are looking forward to fighting it out for the final piece of silverware for the 2023/24 season when they get their CSA T20 Challenge underway on Friday against the Dafabet Warriors in Gqeberha.

A first season in the top-flight of South African domestic cricket has been tough for the Pietermaritzburg-based side, however they have continued to fight throughout as expected.

The Tuskers will have the services of experienced T20 player Cameron Delport for the competition as the hard-hitting left-hander looks to get the Tuskers off to a positive start.

Michael Erlank will captain the side again and has proven to be a crucial member of the squad. The Tuskers will also have the services of Namibian international Ruben Trumpelmann from the second match of the competition.

The left-arm seamer has played in 23 T20 Internationals for Namibia with best figures of 4/29 and will add depth to the squad.

For coach Ahmed Amla, T20 cricket offers players the opportunity to express themselves. He also understands that while the international players are playing the tournament is going to be that much more competitive.

“The squad is looking forward to some T20 competition against very good players in the 1st few weeks,” Amla said. “The guys are up for the challenge and know that only our best team effort will be good enough.

“The squad guys are motivated as they have seen that there are opportunities available to go out and kick start careers with endless possibilities if they win games.”

The Tuskers head to the Eastern Cape for their opener on Friday and Amla knows that there are going to be chances for his team through the tournament. He understands that they need to take those chances if they are to make an impact.

“We have to play as unit with everyone pulling in same direction if we want to end in the top four.

“Coming into the competition our focus has been on getting the team in positive frame of mind and making sure we are confident of executing the basics,” Amla added.

The AET Tuskers face the Dafabet Warriors in their first match of the CSA T20 Challenge at St George’s Park in Gqeberha on Friday.

AET Tuskers Squad for CSA T20 Challenge:

Michael Erlank (captain), Cameron Delport, Thamsanqa Kumalo, Malcolm Nofal, Cameron Shekelton, Kyle Nipper, Keith Dudgeon, Dilivio Ridgard, Alindile Mhletywa, Smangaliso Nhlebela, Kurtlyn Mannikam, Mondli Khumalo, Mbulelo Budaza, Ruben Trumpelmann.