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WPCA congratulates Braam Mong on back-to-back Betway SA20 award

WPCA congratulates Braam Mong on back-to-back Betway SA20 award

WP Cricket

January 2026

NEWLANDS – Western Province Cricket Association (WPCA) has congratulated World Sports Betting Newlands Groundsman, Braam Mong and head grounds assistant Alfred Damoyi and the rest of his team, on a superb summer season after he was named the Betway SA20 Groundsman of the Season for a second consecutive year.

Mong received the prestigious accolade following another outstanding season at Newlands, where the quality of playing surfaces continued to draw praise from players, coaches, and officials alike. The work of the grounds staff once again set the benchmark across the competition.

In addition to the SA20 campaign, Mong and his ground staff were commended for maintaining exceptional wickets during the recent Proteas Women’s series against Ireland on 5 December 2025, as well as throughout the first half of the South African domestic cricket season. The consistency and competitiveness of cricket on display were largely attributed to the meticulous preparation of the pitches.

Newlands also successfully hosted five sold-out MI Cape Town home matches during the tournament, further underlining the significance of Mong’s achievement. The Betway SA20 is widely regarded as the second-largest T20 league in the world, making the recognition even more noteworthy.

WPCA Chief Executive Officer Corrie van Zyl congratulated Mong on his achievement, saying: “Braam, Alfred, Laeeq, Tyron and Leonard have truly put their hearts and souls into ensuring that the playing facilities were fully prepared for all cricket, including Season 4 of the Betway SA20. Their dedication, tireless attention to detail and countless hours of preparation ensured that WSB Newlands once again affirmed its status as the most beautiful ground in the world. The outstanding wickets produced an exciting final that was fitting of the occasion. They richly deserve this accolade, and we are immensely proud of them of the work they have done across the summer cricket season.”

Adding to Braam’s achievement, League Commissioner Graeme Smith said: “I think it’s great,” he said. “I think Newlands has had its challenges during pre-season. I know in season one, they struggled with their pitch, and there was a lot of pressure on Braam going forward. But I think he certainly has produced in the last two years consistent surfaces that have had a great mix for bat and ball – a bit of a loud stroke plays as well.”