Lions excited to resume chase for silverware

The Lions lost both the 50-over and T20 titles to Western Province last season, despite finishing top of the log in both competitions.

Speaking at the DP World Lions 2026/27 season launch at Wanderers Stadium on Tuesday night, Ntozakhe says lifting a trophy is now the team’s number one priority after falling short in both finals last season.

"I haven't healed from it but it's one of those feelings you have to embrace heading into the new season. The sadness of last season is going to bring out so much passion now because we got a sniff of it and we know what it will take to go a step further this time."

READ: Lhuan-dre Pretorius unfazed about missed century in Proteas win

The 28-year-old bowler joined the Lions as an Under-13 player and says her journey with the franchise has been life-changing.

Ntozakhe adds that she is grateful to have witnessed the growth and evolution of women’s cricket while representing the club.

"To realise where we are today from where we started is really humbling. It is a privilege to still be here today after witnessing so many changes and how the women's structure has evolved as a whole.'

Ntozakhe believes the blend of professional and semi-professional players in the squad has been crucial to their development.

She says the experience of the senior and high-performance players provides an opportunity for the younger members of the squad to learn and grow.