The 2025/2026 Cricket South Africa (CSA) Pathway Awards took place on July 16 at the Sandton Convention Centre, celebrating the individuals and programmes that continue to develop cricket from the ground up.

Congratulations to Newcastle’s Rishi Nanan, who won the KFC Bucket Loads of Good Award.

Nanan is the fourth recipient of the award since it was introduced in 2023 and the first winner from KwaZulu-Natal.

Representing the KZN Inland Cricket Union, he was short-listed alongside three other nominees, with his win announced live on television.

Nanan earns recognition for grassroots contribution

The award recognises individuals who have made an outstanding contribution through mini-cricket programmes.

The CSA Pathway Awards are regarded as one of the highest honours in grassroots cricket development in South Africa.

According to Nanan, he joined the programme as a volunteer, offering his time and skills to give back to the community through sport. “We always need more volunteers to build stronger communities, develop people and expand personal, professional and social networks,” he said.

He continued, “I have been involved in various programmes and organisations throughout my professional career, giving back to students and mentoring graduates in the architectural profession. I have represented organisations such as the South African Institute of Building Designers and the South African Institute of Architectural Technologists as a former board member and chapter representative.

“Sometimes people help us without even realising it. By the time we recognise their kindness, they may no longer be there or may not need our help. That is why we should ‘pay it forward’ by doing good for someone else, who could one day become a future sports person or leader in our country. ” We rise by lifting others. “

Award celebrates his commitment to young players

Nanan said CSA flew him to the awards and accommodated the nominees in five-star accommodation for several days during the event.

He also attended the Professional Cricket Awards, a red-carpet event where he had the opportunity to meet current professional players and retired cricket legends.

“It was a wonderful experience and a fantastic award to receive. CSA acknowledging us as coaches and volunteers is greatly appreciated. I do this for the love of sport and the game, but most importantly, I do it for the children,” he concluded.

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