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Spirit of Cricket Announces Official Squad for Cape Town Tour 2026
- Anthony Telfer
- Dec 8
- 3 min read
The Spirit of Cricket organisation is proud to announce the official squad selected to tour Cape Town, South Africa from 14–24 March 2026, marking the third and most ambitious international tour in its rapidly expanding global program.
The 2026 touring group brings together an elite group of players representing Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, USA, West Indies and Sri Lanka, reflecting the international growth and competitive calibre of the Spirit of Cricket community.
Two representative teams have been confirmed for the tour:
Spirit of Cricket World XI
Spirit of Cricket Masters XI
These sides will compete in a high-profile international veterans tournament featuring teams from: Cricket Australia Masters, Masters Cricket USA, Wales Vets Cricket, Zimbabwe +50 Cricket Association, CCMC Canada, and hosts Veterans South Africa Rhinos.
Competition will be played across a dynamic schedule of T20 matches and 45-over one-day fixtures, showcasing high-quality cricket in one of the world’s most celebrated sporting destinations.
Barry Richards Appointed Official Tour Ambassador
The Spirit of Cricket is honoured to confirm legendary South African batsman Barry Richards as the official Tour Ambassador for 2026.Players will participate in mentoring sessions, cricket forums, and on-field engagement with one of the most iconic opening batsmen in the sport’s history—an opportunity unique to the Spirit of Cricket touring experience.
“It is a privilege to welcome the Spirit of Cricket touring squad to South Africa in 2026. This tour represents everything that is great about our game, community, respect, shared experience, and the joy of competition across nations. I look forward to spending time with the players, sharing stories, and helping them immerse themselves in the unique cricketing culture of South Africa. Cape Town is a magnificent destination for cricket, and the standard of this Masters tournament will be exceptionally high. The Spirit of Cricket continues to build something very special, bringing people together through the game we all love. I’m delighted to be part of it and excited to help create memories that will last a lifetime.” stated Barry.
Founder's Statement
Spirit of Cricket Founder, Anthony Telfer, said the Cape Town Tour represents the organisation’s strongest and most exciting program to date:
“This is our third tour now and promises to be the best yet. New Zealand, Sri Lanka & now Cape Town, split into two weeks with the O55's Tournament against international teams in Wales, Zimbabwe, the USA, Canada, Australia and the South African Rhinos and then we head north to Zimbabwe to experience Victoria Falls then back to Johannesburg to experience the World famous "Bull Ring”- The Wanderers Stadium.
Player Testimonial
Long-time tour member and Victorian representative, Nic Cullinane, said the Spirit of Cricket program had been transformational:
“New Zealand last year was a bucket list adventure and South Africa in March will be even better. The Spirit of Cricket Tour is a must for your cricket bucket list! As an inaugural SOC Tour member, I can’t recommend it enough. This life-changing adventure led me to play at an international level and earn a spot in the Div 1 Victorian O50s team. Telf’s passion ensures an unforgettable experience of cricket, mateship and incredible memories.”
Final Positions Available
There are four (4) remaining positions available for players wishing to join the touring party. Final leadership appointments and squad confirmations will be released next week.
Register here today:
About Spirit of Cricket
The Spirit of Cricket delivers world-class international cricket experiences for players aged 50+, promoting sportsmanship, camaraderie and global connection through the game. Tours to date have include New Zealand, Sri Lanka, and now South Africa, with continued expansion planned into 2027 and beyond.
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