TZANEEN – Schalk Rossouw, a young cricketer from Merensky Agricultural Academy, has been appointed captain of the u/16 Limpopo Impala Cricket team ahead of the CSA Cricket Week in Paarl from December 9-14. The news was announced during the team’s capping ceremony on November 22.

Rossouw said he was taken by surprise when he learned he had been chosen to lead the side.

“I was surprised, but grateful,” he said. “I know this role comes with big responsibilities and challenges.”

He said the captaincy is a meaningful milestone in his cricket journey.

“It means a lot, especially knowing that other people believe in my leadership,” he said. “Being given this chance can open opportunities for me in the future.”

A leadership style built on support

Describing the type of leader he hopes to be, Schalk said he strives to be the best captain he can be. “I want to support my teammates, keep them confident, and motivate them.”

He added that the team’s close bond will be one of their strengths going into the tournament.

“We are like a family. We uplift each other, and that helps us stay positive,” he said. “If anyone is struggling, I will make sure to reach out personally.”

The squad has been preparing through a combination of fitness, fielding and net sessions, while players have also continued training individually.

“This week is physically and mentally demanding,” he said. “We have worked hard as a team, and we’ve also looked at the conditions in Paarl so we know what to expect.”

Schalk said his focus is on consistency and mental readiness.

“I’m just working on getting the basics right and preparing myself mentally,’ he said. He hopes the team can deliver a strong showing.

“I want us to be the most successful Limpopo team this year, but also to enjoy it,” he said.

“We must give our best and never back down.”

Family influence and school support

He credits his love for cricket to his family.

“My grandfather and uncle inspired me. They took me to play cricket when I was young, and I’ve loved it ever since,” he said.

Schalk expressed appreciation for the support he receives at school.

“Being a Plasie helps me a lot. They give me special programmes at the gym and always support me. I’ve learned to lead by example and to never give up.”

Coaches praise his discipline and drive

Plasies’ head coach Stebian van der Walt said the appointment came as no surprise to him.

“We were so happy for him,” he said. “I always knew Schalk had massive leadership qualities. He leads by example and is a role model to many young players.”

Van der Walt praised Schalk’s work ethic, saying: “He always made sure he got extra one-on-one focus. We’ve done many sessions after hours and on weekends. In my 20 years of coaching, I’ve never seen someone so focussed and motivated on his fitness.”

He added that Schalk’s discipline on the field is matched by his willingness to learn.

“He’s very coachable. He absorbs knowledge and applies it in his own game and within the team environment.”

Assistant coach and the u/16 Impala Cricket management team, Thabo Ledwaba, said Schalk’s maturity made him the natural choice for captain.

“He brings a calm presence to the group, leads by example, is disciplined, and the boys look up to him.”

Ledwaba believes the team is ready for the national challenge. ‘They have worked hard through structured sessions, match simulations, and fitness work,” he said.

“Paarl can be tough with the heat and the conditions, but we believe they have what it takes to handle it.”