FROM playing cricket in his grandparents’ lounge to competitive matches, cricket has always been a passion for Berea West Senior Primary School learner, Hamzah Mahomedy.

Whether it was hitting a few balls in the backyard or playing with his cousins in the Botanical Gardens, Hamzah said his love for the game only grew stronger.

He was selected for the KZN U13 cricket team.

Speaking about his cricket journey, Hamzah said it officially began in Grade Two at Berea West Preparatory School.

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“Coach Razak, a skilled spin coach, visited our school and introduced me to a whole new aspect of the game. I didn’t start out as a spinner; my early days were spent as a pace bowler. However, Coach Razak saw my potential in spin bowling, and that moment changed everything. From there, I poured my energy into training and perfecting my skill.”

His dedication and hard work paid off. “I was selected for the Pinetown and District [PADDSA] U11 cricket squad, and soon after, I made it into the U11 KZN team, travelling to Johannesburg for my first-ever tour.

“The experience was unforgettable – being out on the field, sharing victories with my teammates and learning from every defeat. Through it all, the camaraderie among the players stood out; knowing that the same teammate today could be your opponent tomorrow made each game even more thrilling,” he said.

Asked about what he loves about cricket, he smiled and said, “It’s the thrill of the unpredictability – the excitement of not knowing what ball the bowler might deliver, the quick decisions required, and the constant need to adapt my strategy that keeps me hooked. Cricket teaches you to thrive under pressure; every choice – whether to pitch the ball higher or adjust your delivery – can make a significant impact on the game’s outcome.”

As a young cricketer, he said he was always inspired by Hashim Amla, who embodies qualities such as good character and respect and stands by his morals.

“He has been a role model for me throughout my journey. As I’ve grown older and developed my skills as a spin bowler, I aspire to emulate Keshav Maharaj. I deeply admire his dedication to training and exceptional skill in spin bowling, and I strive to follow in his footsteps.

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“My dream is to one day represent the Proteas, travelling the world, competing at the highest level and meeting new people along the way.”

His advise to the young cricketers is: “Never give up, and always give your best in training. As the legendary Jonty Rhodes once said, ‘Hard work beats talent when talent fails to work hard’.”

He added that he is grateful to Razzors Cricket Academy that visited his school and to Coach Razak who recognised his potential.

“His guidance set me on a path that led to becoming the captain of my school cricket team and earning a place on the KZN Provincial team three years in a row. I am forever thankful for the support of my coaches and mentors who have helped me become the cricketer I am today.”

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