THE defending champions, Takashinga Patriots 2, take on SOGO Rangers at Harare Sports Club on Tuesday afternoon in the opening salvo of the NPL T20 Blast.

As the T20 Blast kicks off, cricket enthusiasts are in for a treat. This 11-day cricketing extravaganza, running from August 26 to September 7, features the top eight NPL finishers.

Both sides have enjoyed impressive runs in the recently concluded 45-over National Premier League (NPL).

Takashinga Patriots 2, still basking in the glory of their previous triumph, find themselves in a bit of a pickle. However, as any cricket aficionado worth their salt knows, champions are not made of sugar, they thrive on challenges.

The recently concluded National Premier League (NPL) saw both teams finish neck on neck, with SOGO Rangers pipping Takashinga 2 to third place on head to head.

The Rangers also got the better of the Patriots in their NPL encounter, adding an extra layer of spice to this T20 showdown.

Stuart Matsikenyeri, the Takashinga Patriots 2’s coach, exudes confidence.

“It is the beginning of the tournament and we would want to do well and put points on the board,” remarked Matsikenyeri.

“SOGO have had one from us in a different format but it is important that we understand our plans and strive to collect points early in the tournament.”

The Patriots 2′ gaffer is not letting the grass grow under his feet. He has had his charges engage in a game situational encounter against their sister team, Patriots 1, to sharpen their T20 skills. This move could prove to be the ace up their sleeve as they look to hit the ground running.

Matsikenyeri’s words resonate with the pride of a champion: “We pride ourselves as the biggest cricket club on the land and we expect to set the standards and maintain the bar high and possibly win this competition as well,” he said.

It’s clear that Takashinga 2 is not here to make up the numbers – they are here to defend their crown.

SOGO Rangers, on the other hand, will be looking to build on their NPL performance and upset the applecart. With momentum on their side from their previous victory over Takashinga 2 they would certainly want to add salt to injury.

The 2024 tournament will feature Gladiators Cricket Club, Mbizo Cricket Club, Queens Sports Club, Rainbow Cricket Club, Takashinga Patriots 1, and Westside Cricket Club, all vying for T20 glory.

With the first ball yet to be bowled, predictions are as dicey as a googly on a turning track. Will Takashinga Patriots 2 start their title defence with a bang?