100 DAYS TO GO

The Sunrisers have been the Cinderella story of Betway SA20 during the first two seasons, capturing the imagination of both their home supporters and fans around the country with their enterprising brand of cricket spearheaded by the best of South Africa’s youthful talent.

Young guns such as Tristan Stubbs, Marco Jansen and Jordan Hermann have become household names alongside established stars such as captain Aiden Markram and Roelof van der Merwe.

There have also been the fairytale stories of Ottneil Baartman and Patrick Kruger that have risen from obscurity to becoming international cricketers.

A significant part of the Sunrisers’ success is due to their unique team culture and their “will to win” even under the most trying circumstances, which has been spearheaded by their creditable coach Adrian Birrell.

The 63-year-old is keenly looking forward to the start of Season 3 on their home ground at St George's Park in exactly 100 days’ time.

“The Betway SA20 and Sunrisers Eastern Cape have quickly crept into the heart of the people of Gqeberha over the past two years,” Birrell said.

“The way the Orange Army have come out to support us at St George's Park has been nothing short of sensational. We have certainly felt their presence at each and every home game and they have virtually been our 12th man during our two successful campaigns. 

“Knowing that we are going back there in just 100 days’ time, to play the opening game of our Season 3 campaign at home, before our loyal fan base, is certainly something I am looking forward to, and I am sure the rest of the team as well.

“It is also great to have Roelof van der Merwe back. I am sure he is also happy to be back in Gqeberha and will be itching to perform in front of the Orange Army again.”

St George's Park is not only distinguished as the oldest ground in the country, but also for its unique spectator experience with the brass band providing entertainment throughout.

“There are few stadiums in the world that have the ability to generate the type of carnival-like atmosphere that St George's Park conjures up with the brass band keeping everyone entertained,” Birrell said.

“It inspires not just the local players, but also our overseas additions as they are quickly transfixed by the entire experience of playing at St George's Park.”

The Sunrisers will be hoping for a three-peat in Season 3 and Birrell will certainly be preparing his players accordingly.

“Season 3 will be our hardest yet, with all the teams having done their homework and analysis on what has been successful for us in the past,” Birrell said.

“But as long as we play for each other, stay humble and enjoy it, I am sure the results will take care of themselves.”