TAKASHINGA Patriots 1 take to the field against SOGO Rangers at Old Georgians Sports Club in their fourth match of the National Premier League League (NPL) with the weight of history bearing down on both teams.

It is a clash of cultures, a test of mettle that transcends the boundaries of the playing field.

The clash evokes memories of old, a reminder of past divisions, change of guard and the battle of a new generation who heard tales from their fathers.

Groombridge setting is a reminder of the then National League finals in the mid 80’s when a team called Bionics was the only black club playing in the league.

Bionics evolved to become Takashinga, clubs like Old Georgians no longer exist but cricket is still being played at their ground.

Takashinga has become a household with depth to field two teams in the NPL. Rangers on the other hand won the right to play in the NPL for the first time courtesy of their great performance in the Vigne Cup.

The Zimbabwe cricket landscape has changed and it is now inclusive of all races, some who will play on Wednesday may not know the history but one thing you know is that it will be a tough encounter with both teams giving their all on the field.

Rangers just found how competitive the NPL is after they were humbled at home losing to Gladiators Cricket Club by four wickets on Sunday.

Takashinga 1 made it three out of three wins, comprehensively beating Scorpions Cricket Club by eight wickets to climb at the top of the table.

Both teams have national team players within their ranks which will make for a thrilling contest.

Rangers know that nothing short of victory will suffice, Boyz Dzangu on the other hand will want to create a bit of daylight between them and the chasing pack.

Takashinga 1 will seek to assert themselves as the kings of domestic cricket and send a statement to Rangers that they are not ready to relinquish their crown just yet.