Kotze shines at CSA U13 regional tournament
He took 10 wickets, including a five-wicket haul against Boland in their first 50-over match.
Eastern Storm U13 off-spinner Nathan Kotze emerged as one of the standout performers at the Cricket South Africa (CSA) U13 Regional Week hosted by the Eastern Cricket Union from November 29 to December 2.
The Laerskool Baanbreker Grade Seven learner finished among the tournament’s leading wicket-takers, claiming 10 scalps, including a match-winning five-wicket haul that powered his team to victory in their opening clash against Boland.
“The tournament was challenging. We faced many ups and downs with my teammates, but we showed unity and that carried us over,” he said.
Kotze and his teammates dominated their 50-over fixtures, with victories over Boland and Free State studded with teamwork and a splash of individual brilliance.
They lost one T20 fixture against the Northern Cape but bounced back to claim a nail-biting five-wicket win against KZN-Inland. Their one fixture was rained out.
The youngster said his most memorable moment was his first wicket against Boland, where the batsman attempted a slog sweep but completely missed the ball and watched as it hit the stumps.
Also Read: Northerns name Owens female cricketer of the season
“The five-wicket haul meant a lot. I always dreamt of doing it in Easterns colours. It was a proud moment. I was wicketless in the first five overs. When I went back, I was nervous. But after taking the first wicket, they kept coming,” Kotze said.
The Boksburg resident explained that he plans to pursue cricket professionally. His next goal is to progress through the Easterns ranks to the senior team and ultimately play Test cricket for SA.
“Cricket is my passion and first love. The plan is to stick it out here at Easterns, playing age-group cricket until I progress to the seniors. I want to play Test cricket for the Proteas.”
Kotze, who will move to Hoërskool Dr EG Jansen next year, was a seamer before converting to spin bowling four years ago. He looks up to the late Australian right-arm leg spinner, ‘King of spin’, Shane Warne.
“I like his leg spin and how he floats the ball.”
Commenting on the tournament, Kotze said, “It’s a good opportunity because we all dream of playing for our provinces. It gives confidence and exposes us to high level cricket”.
Also Read: Farrarmere Primary dominate cricket league season
