PHALABORWA – At just 21 years old, Shelton Ngobeni from Namakgale has earned a place as the new wicketkeeper and batsman for the Limpopo Impala cricket team.

While excited about reaching this professional milestone, Ngobeni remains grounded and focused on the journey ahead.

“I’m honoured to be part of such a great team, especially at my age,” he said. “But I don’t want to get carried away. I want to stay humble and make a meaningful contribution to the team’s success because cricket is a team sport, not about individual glory.”

Ngobeni is currently studying kinesiology and coaching science at the Tshwane University of Technology in Pretoria, where he played for the Titans Academy team.

He said the past season was his best yet, despite initially struggling with confidence upon joining the academy. With encouragement from his family and friends, he was able to overcome those challenges and reach his potential.

His path to success has not been without hardship. At the age of 13, Ngobeni lost his mother and went on to live with his older siblings, uncle, and grandfather. His uncle, Hector Ngobeni, played a significant role in his sports journey, providing constant support and motivation.

“He always believed in me and kept telling me I would make it,” Shelton said.

In 2022, at just 17 years old, Ngobeni was selected as one of 13 players to represent the South African Schools Colts team after impressing selectors at the prestigious Khaya Majola Cricket Week.

Ngobeni began his cricket journey with the Phalaborwa Cricket Club and the Phalaborwa Cricket Hub, where he honed his skills before rising to national recognition.

Now, as he takes the next step in his cricket career with Limpopo Impalas, Ngobeni is focused on working hard, staying humble, and continuing to grow both on and off the field.