Nelson Mandela Bay Giants head coach Eric Simons was particularly pleased with the acquisition of fast bowler Akhona Mnyaka at this week’s player draft for the 2019 Mzansi Super League.

Mnayaka was named in the Bloem City Blazers’ squad for the 2017 T20 Global League, which never materialised – and was later revamped as the MSL.

He was recruited by the Giants for R100,000 in round 12 of Tuesday’s draft. Whether the young left-armer is able to secure a berth in the first-choice XI, though, remains in the balance.

‘I think these tournaments are really unpredictable in terms of who will come through. But I certainly believe that Akhona is one that can stand up. I know the role he can play for us and I know what he can do. That’s why we’ve gone with him,’ said Simons.

‘It’s a long tournament and games come quickly, so the chances of picking up an injury are very possible. It’s then about looking to the rest of the squad for that replacement and I think we have that covered.’

England batsman Jason Roy and Proteas leg-spinner Imran Tahir were retained as international and local marquee player, respectively. Australian Ben Dunk and South African batsman Farhaan Behardien were also purchased by the Giants.

‘All in all, I think we’ve got 11 solid cricketers in terms of the first team, if I can call it that, and then back-up in each area. Someone who can bat right the way through, someone who can bat at the top of the order, an all-rounder, some seamers, so we’re well covered,’ added Simons.

Squad: Imran Tahir, Jason Roy (England), Chris Morris (retained player), Jon-Jon Smuts (retained player), Junior Dala (retained player), Farhaan Behardien, Beuran Hendricks, Matthew Breetzke, Onke Nyaku, Ben Dunk (Australia), Heino Kuhn (retained player), Marco Marais (retained player), Grant Thomson, Akhona Mnyaka, Nandre Burger.

Photo: Gallo Images