England batsman Ben Duckett is determined to capitalise on a promising stint in the Mzansi Super League.

Duckett was drafted by the Nelson Mandela Bay Giants earlier this year – and will play alongside fellow Englishman Jason Roy and Proteas internationals Chris Morris, Jon-Jon Smuts, Christiaan Jonker, Junior Dala and others.

‘It’s pretty special. I feel privileged to have been picked up in the draft and I can’t wait to get started with the lads and to try and put in some performances to help us win,’ he said.

‘It’s always nice to play with familiar faces, Jason is one of the most destructive players in the world and I can’t wait to share the field with him again.

‘I can’t wait to play with such big-name players.  I’m going to try and pick their brains as much as I can and try to improve as a player.’

The Giants will meet the Jozi Stars at the Wanderers on Saturday and Cape Town Blitz at Newlands on Wednesday. Their first home game will be at St George’s Park will be against the Durban Heat on 23 November.

‘I’ve heard it’s a pretty special atmosphere at St George’s Park and as a new face it will be nice to try and get the crowd on my side. I love playing in front of a good crowd, so I can’t wait to get started.  I played for England under-17 in Port Elizabeth, so I can’t wait to get out there again,’ added Duckett, who played four Tests and three ODIs in 2016.

Image: Gallo