Proteas stars reflect on schools' cricket journey and how it shaped careers

    Some of South Africa's top cricketers have reflected on the impact of schools' cricket on their professional careers, ahead of the inaugural cchools SA20 national finals weekend.

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    Schools cricket remains the bedrock of the Cricket South Africa (CSA) pipeline and has unearthed star Proteas players over the years. ​

    The coming week will be the turn of the next generation of incredible talent, as the top boys' and girls' schools compete on the biggest schools' cricket stage from 12-15 March at Tuks.

    "Playing cricket at school was where it all started for me," Proteas fast bowler Lungi Ngidi said. "It was an incredible experience that taught me the value of hard work, teamwork, and perseverance. I'm excited to see the next generation of cricketers in action at the Schools SA20."

    Proteas Women's captain, Laura Wolvaardt said: "I loved taking part in schools' cricket. ​ I spent a lot of time playing with the boys, but it really helped my development. We would spend every break time playing, either with a mini bat and tennis ball. Those are definitely some of my fondest memories." ​

    Proteas Women wicketkeeper batter Sinalo Jafta reflected on her own experiences playing in provincial weeks", saying: "Growing up, we didn't have schools’ cricket, but I was fortunate to participate in provincial weeks, which took place every December.

    "These tournaments provided a platform for young players like myself to showcase our talents alongside future stars like Annecke Bosch, Ayabonga Khaka, and Zintle Mali, who now represents the Springbok women's sevens and 15s teams.

    "We were encouraged to play without pressure and simply enjoy the experience. Those provincial weeks were instrumental in shaping my early cricket career and provided valuable lessons that have stayed with me to this day."

    Proteas all-rounder, Wiaan Mulder, credited schools cricket with teaching him valuable life lessons.

    He said: "Participating in schools T20 weeks was an invaluable experience that taught me how to manage pressure and anxiety in a team environment. It also showed me the importance of treating people with respect and creating a positive team culture."

    In addition to the trophy, the winning teams will walk away with one bursary provided by SA20 and SACA, a facilities upgrade courtesy of Cricket South Africa and a hamper of vouchers from Sedgars Sport.

    Boys Teams

    POOL A: Northwood School (KwaZulu-Natal), St Andrew’s School Bloemfontein (Central), Hoërskool Garsfontein (Gauteng North), Graeme College (Focus School).

    POOL B: Pearson High School (Eastern Cape), Bishops Diocesan College (Western Cape), St David's Marist Inanda (Gauteng South), CSA Hubs Invitational XI

    Girls Teams

    POOL A: Dr JL Dube High School (KwaZulu-Natal), Saints Christian School (Central), Nkowankowa Hub (Gauteng North).

    POOL B: Nomandi Junior Secondary School (Eastern Cape), Victoria Hub (Western Cape), Steyn City School (Gauteng South)