Assistant coach Wandile Gwavu appreciated a good balance of retained players and new arrivals after this week’s draft for the 2019 Mzansi Super League.

The Stars are the reigning champions, having beaten the Cape Town Blitz in last year’s inaugural final. West Indian batsman Chris Gayle and Proteas fast bowler Kagiso Rabada have stayed as the franchise’s marquee international and local player, respectively.

While batsmen Pite van Biljon and Dane Vilas have moved to the Tshwane Spartans and Durban Heat, respectively, the talented Temba Bavuma, Aaron Phangiso, Delano Potgieter, Eathan Bosch and Lizaad Williams have joined.

‘We certainly got what we wanted out here. We are pleased with the 2019 Jozi Stars team – both new signings and our retained champion-winning players. We are ready to defend our title and beat the best that the Mzansi Super League has to offer,’ said Gwavu.

The Blitz, meanwhile, have retained batsman Janneman Malan and all-rounder George Linde and recruited England’s Liam Livingstone. Pakistan fast bowler Wahab Riaz will be their international marquee player.

‘We finished second last year and the plan is to do much better this season.  It’s tough because everyone in the room hoped to get the best players to ensure they will come out on top,’ added Blitz coach Ashwell Prince.

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