Former Proteas bowler Makhaya Ntini insists the first ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in Africa is a course to celebrate. The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup taking place in South Africa starts in 10 days’ time.

It is also the first time South Africa or the African continent is hosting a Women’s T20 World Cup. This has also been viewed as an occasion which will take the profile of women’s cricket in the country and the continent to new heights.

Tickets can be found online at www.t20worldcup.com/tickets or at the ticket office at the stadium.

HISTORIC WOMEN’S T20 WORLD CUP COUNTDOWN

An official 10-day countdown to the opening match between South Africa and Sri Lanka took place in Gqeberha on Tuesday.

“It is a truly special time for South Africa and Africa to be hosting their first World Cup,” said Ntini on the sidelines of the event at Kenako Mall.

“The eyes of the world will also be on us as the best cricketers play for the sought-after trophy. It will give us an opportunity to celebrate and showcase our rich and amazing country.

PROTEAS LEGEND MAKHAYA NTINI REMINISCE BIG STAGE EXPERIENCE

“I also remember how incredible it was to play in a World Cup. The honour and the thrill to represent your country is one of the best feelings out there. I would encourage every player to enjoy the occasion, the good and the bad, this opportunity doesn’t come around often.”

Ntini, who is a veteran of 101 Tests, 173 One-Day Internationals and two ICC Men’s World Cups, is expecting a fiercely contested competition as the 10 best teams in the world, led by defending champions Australia, prepare to challenge for the ultimate prize in T20 cricket.

“I also don’t think there are favourites in a T20 World Cup,” he added.

 “In T20 cricket, all it takes is one moment of individual brilliance to turn the course of a match. All the 10 teams have talented match-winners, I think it will be a very competitive and exciting World Cup,” Ntini explained.

All eyes will be on Newlands Cricket Ground on 10 February as the eighth Women’s T20 World Cup kicks off. The picturesque ground hasn’t hosted an ICC World Cup match since 2003, and is primed to set the stage for the official opening event.

Also read: Siya Kolisi backs ICC Women’s T20 World Cup with 50 days to go