Youngsters ready to take on Proteas

This is the fifth installment of the competition that will see the Proteas playing three different KFC Mini-Cricket teams across the country of which Albina Primary School is one.

Children between the ages of six and 13, both boys and girls, from the school will take on their favourite players in the game that will be televised on the day.

Tintswalo Mabasa, the school’s sport coordinator, told Kathorus MAIL how the opportunity came about.

“The school won the SMS competition that is run by KFC and Cricket South Africa throughout the country.

“It is an open competition whereby anyone can enter on behalf of their schools.

“One parent entered on behalf of our school,” said Mabasa.

Mabasa said they are very happy as they believe that some of the problems that the school has regarding cricket will finally be rectified.

She said some of these problems are that there aren’t hard cricket balls and that learners who do well in this sport aren’t recognised.

In addition, Mabasa said the school is grateful for the job that is done by the coaches.

“As we speak they are busy preparing the players for the match against the Proteas,” she said.

Julius Maziya, the mini-cricket coordinator from Eastern Cricket Union, said this is an opportunity of a lifetime for these kids.

“Most of these children play for Vosloorus Cricket Club and as a result, they are participating in the Eastern Cricket League.

“So for the school to be part of the tour is a good thing for our cricket league,” said Maziya.

Currently the Proteas are busy with the cricket series against India.

“We are not sure if we are going to have all the players available on the day but Cricket South Africa will choose the best players from those who will be available,” Maziya said.

Isaac Phele, the development coach of Vosloorus Cricket Club, said working with these children is fun but challenging.

“They are good in such a way that I must get my coaching right all the time.

“I have to make sure that my coaching is improving every week, and I must also improve and learn from them,” said Phele.

He said this is a dream come true for the little cricketers as well as for him.

“I’ve been seeing it on TV.

“I never thought I would be part of it one day,” said Phele who has been involved in the development of cricket in the township for the past six years.

“My hard work is finally paying off,” he said.

He said this opportunity will improve the way people see cricket in the township.

“They begin to support cricket,” he said.

The kids were excited for their first day of preparation for the big game against the Proteas.

Mlungisi Manqele (12), one of the cricket players from the school, said he can’t wait to face South Africa’s best cricket players.

“Playing for the national team means you are one of the best players in the country.

“We aren’t guaranteed a win, but let me assure you we will give the Proteas a run for their money,” said the enthusiastic Manqele.