Hitting expectation for a six

Stumping the opposition in form next to none, 12-year-old cricket enthusiast, Mohammed Moola was selected to represent the u/13 Inland KwaZulu-Natal squad recently.

Putting his skill and love of cricket to the ultimate test, Mohammed participated in the Inland trials at St Charles College two weeks ago.

Although being selected comes with a responsibility to attend practice in Pietermaritzburg every Friday, Mohammed’s family is over the moon about his outstanding achievements on the cricket field.

“He eats and sleeps cricket; that’s all he knows. He’s forever watching IPL and T20’s. Cricket comes out of his ears!” said Mohammed’s mother, Nazeera Moola.

Mrs Moola admits Mohammed didn’t particularly like cricket at first, but is thankful the passion grew as he got older. “I think his love of cricket emanates from both sides of the family. In a sense, he’s living the dream for the men in our family who never had the opportunities he did.”

The young cricketer is grateful to his parents for their support throughout the last three years. Hoping to make the national team in the near future, Mohammed is focused on honing and improving on the skills he already possesses.

Playing cricket and being a Grade 6 pupil at Newcastle Senior Primary School have become somewhat of a balancing act for Mohammed. “My mom makes sure my homework is done and up to standard,” he said.

Despite a parent’s first thought being the negative impact sport has on their children’s academic performance, Mrs Moola has received positive feedback from Mohammed’s teachers. “His teachers are pleased with his progress; what more could we ask for?”

Mohammed turns 13 in November. Although he had no expectations when he first felt the pitch beneath his feet, it is clear he has the capability and determination to wear the Protea badge on his chest, pursuing his ultimate dream. “My coach informed me that I am one of the first pupils from Newcastle Senior Primary School to be chosen for the inland team. I have to admit, making history feels good,” said Mohammed.

“I’m excited about my future in cricket. I look forward to the upcoming practices and tournaments; I can’t be scared of the journey I’m on,” he said.

“Businesses are now given the opportunity to advertise their brand by sponsoring provincial players. We can only hope someone will be willing to sponsor Mohammed and players who share in his passion in order to aid in the growth of cricket as a whole,” concluded Mrs Moola.

On behalf of the Newcastle Advertiser, we congratulate Mohammed on his cricketing achievements and wish him well for the upcoming quadrangular tournament taking place in Kimberly on October 23.