16/12/2025
Willow Warriors — what can we say?
It was a big year filled with heartbreak, disappointment, relief, and pride. From the very start, we were placed in one of the strongest pools. Yet we did something few expected — we drew against the Rebels, the current SA Champions. A massive and proud moment for this team.
Before anything else, let’s talk about the team.
The laughter, the jokes, and the spirit were something special. The unity and brotherhood throughout the tournament were unreal. Thank you to every single player — this group made the journey unforgettable.
Highlights from the weekend:
• Dex with that unbelievable catch
• Silo smashing another blistering 48
• Joe and Reinhardt scoring the first 50s in Willow Warriors history
• Henry and Joe taking things to another level with hard running between the wickets
• Reinhardt, our captain — you stepped into a big role and led from the front. Well done on taking on the responsibility and guiding the team
• Silo didn’t always get the chance to bat, but when he did, the ball went all around the oval
• And then… upsetting The Vlam with three sixes in a row — wow!
Our bowling was sharp, and when we slipped, teams punished us. But one thing never changed — we fought every game. We never gave up, knowing we were capable of defending or chasing any score.
In the field, we stepped up when it mattered. Henry and Dex pulled off brilliant run-outs, and every single player gave everything until the final ball.
A special congratulations to Tiaan Engelbrecht on becoming Willow Warriors’ first LMS Legend. A huge achievement and a proud moment for the team — and we know more will follow.
We took on the best:
• Drew with the Rebels (current SA Champions)
• Faced Sandton Royals (current number 1)
• Played Masagamy (ranked number 8)
What does that tell us?
We belong here.
They had a fright.
People still ask how the Rebels drew against us — because we are the Willow Warriors. You may not know us yet, but you will.
This is the Willow Warriors way.
We never stop.
A big thank you to Bjorn and the LMS team for organizing a top-class tournament. Well done on all the hard work, and congratulations on a new name on the trophy.
Thank you to all our supporters — at the field and on YouTube — we felt you.
Thank you to the volunteers, the boys bringing water, and the small Warriors shouting “do better” from the sidelines — you matter more than you know.
We finished 7th or 8th, enjoyed one of the best venues and restaurants, and walked away proud.
Well done to all the Pretoria teams. We gave it everything.
Willow Warriors — heads up.
What a tournament. What a journey.
See you all next year.
Wishing all our fans and families a blessed Christmas and a Happy New Year 🎄✨
