Jozi Cup 2026: Igniting the Winter season

Cricket SA
1 day ago
3 min read

Driven by community passion and purpose, the Jozi Cup’s impact extends far beyond the boundary. The fifth edition of South Africa’s largest T20 winter club cricket competition will commence on 10 May and host in excess of 2 000 players.

Established to strengthen and sustain community club cricket, the Jozi Cup plays a vital role in the Lions Cricket development pathway. The tournament also integrates key initiatives such as the Telkom Talent Acceleration Programme and Blind Cricket, reinforcing its commitment to inclusivity and growth across all levels of the game.

Created by Lions Cricket, the competition features more than 27 clubs, including new entrants Orange Farm, University of Johannesburg and NWU VC. In an exciting development for 2026, an Under-9 division has been introduced, bringing the total number of participating teams to over 155, spanning from U9 level through to Over-40s.

Jozi Cup Tournament Director Reuben Mandlazi highlighted the tournament’s continued growth and significance.

“As we approach the fifth edition of the Jozi Cup, there is a strong sense of anticipation around what promises to be another outstanding showcase of cricket across all age groups. The introduction of the U9 division marks an important milestone, further reinforcing our commitment to early talent identification and long-term player development.

“The Jozi Cup is more than just a competition - it is a celebration of development, diversity, and opportunity. It provides a platform for emerging cricketers to challenge themselves in a competitive environment while embracing the values of discipline, teamwork and sportsmanship. For our senior and veteran players, it remains a showcase of experience and quality.

“We look forward to a tournament filled with energy, skill, and memorable moments as players across all levels rise to the occasion. The Jozi Cup continues to play a vital role in nurturing talent, building character, and shaping the future of cricket within our clubs and communities.”

Lions Cricket extends its sincere gratitude to its valued Jozi Cup partners, including DP World, Telkom, McDonald’s, Diadora, Shrey, Mnandi Signs, Joburg Tourism, Sun International, Shattered Glass, Mahindra, Blaster, 947, Enza Construction, DSC, ACDC Express, Masana Energy Solutions, Fidelity Services Group, ADT, Afripure, Sunfoil, Servest, Alliance, Richfield, Promac Paints, Lift Airlines, Hirsch’s, Ola, Konica Minolta Gauteng, MRB Secure, Craft Homes and many others. Their continued support plays a crucial role in growing the communities that Lions Cricket serves.

Lions Cricket CEO Jono Leaf-Wright emphasised the collective effort behind the tournament’s success.

“This tournament is incredibly close to my heart because it is truly by the community, for the community. The impact it has off the field is immeasurable and continues to inspire us year after year. Its consistent growth is a clear reflection of a winning formula - one supported by outstanding partners and fully embraced by the Lions Cricket family. We’re excited to once again light up the winter season in a big way.”

The stage is set for players, coaches, administrators, and fans alike to dream big, enjoy the game, compete with integrity and uphold the true spirit of cricket the Lions Way.

The divisions/age groups are as follows: U9, U11, U13 boys, U13 girls, U14, U16 and U18; Men’s Open Division (Premier League A); Women’s Open Division; Senior Men’s Open; Veterans and Blind cricket.

The finals will commence over the Youth Day weekend and played at the iconic DP World Wanderers, with the Jozi Cup prize giving for each age group set to take place post each match, inclusive of the fun and pizzazz everyone is used to!