Teen sensation Kwena Maphaka enjoyed a terrific CSA T20 Challenge 2024, claiming 13 wickets in the tournament at an economy rate of 6.03. The left-arm pacer finished as the joint-highest wicket-taker in the tournament alongside Lions leg-spinner Junaid Dawood.
Maphaka, who rose to prominence in the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup earlier this year, was signed up by Mumbai Indians ahead of IPL 2024. He even made his IPL debut, and showed glimpses of his talent in one of the best T20 leagues in the world.
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Maphaka showcased exceptional talent in the 2024 ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup, earning the Player of the Tournament award for his impactful performances. The South African pacer took 21 wickets throughout the tournament, just one short of the tournament record, making him the top wicket-taker. Maphaka achieved the remarkable feat of three five-wicket hauls, setting a record for the most in a single U19 World Cup edition. His consistency and ability to deliver in crucial moments played a key role in South Africa’s journey through the tournament.
Maphaka’s standout spells included a memorable performance of 6/21 against Sri Lanka. His impact drew comparisons with past U19 stars as South Africa unearthed another gem. He subsequently made his Proteas debut as well.
With the IPL 2025 retention and release dates closing in, though, Maphaka is expected to be released by Mumbai Indians with several superstar players likely to be retained. This would see the young Proteas prodigy back in the IPL auction and his performances so far suggest that the left-arm quick could go for a few crores.
The latest season for Titans in the CSA T20 Challenge 2024 puts him in the spotlight again as the auction date approaches in two months. Maphaka will also have a chance to showcase his talent when the Proteas take on India next month in a four-match T20I series at home. The left-arm quick is expected to feature in the series and it could be the biggest stage for him to display his wares ahead of the auction.
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In the CSA T20 Challenge 2024 final, the Lions clinched victory over the Titans by 8 wickets at the Wanderers Stadium. Batting first, the Titans struggled to build momentum and were bowled out for 119 in 19.2 overs, with Lutho Sipamla claiming 4 wickets. In reply, the Lions, led by Rassie van der Dussen’s unbeaten 44 and Connor Esterhuizen’s 48, chased down the target in 15.1 overs, sealing the title emphatically.
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