The Sir John Adamson High School cricket team has come a long way since its inception after the pandemic.
This year, it reached a milestone, gaining exposure and participating in a tournament at the International School of South Africa in Mafikeng, North West.
The chance to play at this event, along with hard work and dedication, proved the team’s growth under the leadership of head cricket coach Kern le Roux and assistant cricket coach Rahul Pillay.
Le Roux, the cricket head, acting head of the department for life orientation and sports co-ordinator, has been instrumental in the team’s growth. Having participated in a cricket development programme, he emphasised the importance of exposure and the opportunities invitations to these tournaments provide.
“It was crucial for the boys to interact with the North West provincial players during the tournament, a moment that motivated the team and could help them grow in their cricketing journey,” said Le Roux.
Tournament preparation
Before heading to Mafikeng, the team prepared through local matches against Hoërskool President and Greenside and Horizon high schools.
These pre-tournament fixtures helped the boys prepare for the competition with training sessions three to four times weekly. Mental and physical conditioning were also part of the preparation, ensuring the players were in top form for the tournament.
Le Roux shared, “I can proudly say we have a strong group of boys.”
The team spent four days in Mafikeng, acclimatising on Thursday and playing matches on the weekend. Despite losing their first game, the boys were determined to keep their heads high and get a win in the other matches.
“Their resilience paid off, although they drew the tournament, which felt like a victory, given how extremely tight the last game was. It came down to the wire, but the team won that game, so they were in winning spirits,” said Le Roux.
The team performed impressively during the tournament, and the players’ leadership qualities began to shine. A highlight included the bowlers and batsmen who took wickets.
Le Roux said: “Some players stepped up and took on roles and responsibilities. I am proud to see the leadership traits some players showed, which is something I never expected.”
Among the players on top form while on tour and who received trophies for their performances were:
Thando Mthetwa: 28 not out and a wicket. Player of the match for a match-winning performance;
Bryan Dube (captain): 40 runs and two wickets. Player of the match;
Tayyab Ali (vice-captain): 42 runs not out, three catches and a wicket. Awarded for a match-winning performance.
Sponsorship and community support
A challenge for the team was finances, but local sponsors and the players’ contributions helped raise almost R25 000 for the trip to Mafikeng.
“The players were given extra kit, water bottles and snacks to ensure they were well-prepared for the tournament. The school assisted with transportation and other logistics, making the trip to Mafikeng possible.
“We thank Henry Matthews, the cricket tournament co-ordinator, the school and all the sponsors,” shared Le Roux.
From underdogs to competitors
“We are a mixed team now because of the numbers, but we have grown. The team comprises players aged between U15 and U18, and they have made progress which is nothing short of inspiring,” said Le Roux.
The team had many players start their cricketing journey in high school without a solid foundation.
However, with their focus on improving, the team has turned potential into skill. Before the trip to Mafikeng, they were undefeated, and although they lost a game at the tournament, it was a victory in spirit.
Le Roux spoke of the team’s transformation, “They were never a batting team, but now they can hold their own, which shows growth,” he added.
A bright future
As the team looks to future tournaments, they are more determined than ever to continue winning. They and Le Roux have proved that anything is possible with the right attitude and dedication.
