Warriors captain Jon-Jon Smuts aims to build on the success of Eastern Province’s Africa T20 Cup triumph when the T20 Challenge kicks off on Saturday. 

Smuts led EP to the African T20 cup trophy in September/October and ended the competition as the second-highest run scorer (196) in the competition behind Rassie van der Dussen (203). He also hit the only century in the tournament’s short history, scoring 102 not out in EP’s opening match against Gauteng.

The 28-year-old is becoming a 20-over specialist and he proved this after he took part in the Caribbean Premier League, where he played five matches for the St Kitts and Nevis Patriots and continued to develop his T20 skills in the off-season.

‘I had quite a busy winter with the CPL and then things just fell into place with the Africa T20 Cup, so hopefully it will continue from here,’ Smuts said.

‘The Warriors have been building for a few years now, we’ve got a few more guys who are experienced at this level, so it will be quite nice to see how they go. I think I will be a very interesting competition this year.’

Smuts is looking forward to playing again after not featuring in the Sunfoil Series for his franchise.

‘Everyone loves T20 cricket, it’s a format that has really hit the world in a big way and I think everyone is enjoying it,’ he added.

The Warriors will face the Dolphins in Kingsmead on Sunday as they look to win their first T20 challenge trophy since 2009-10.