Donovan Capes expands on the joys of cricket

I was in school, we had to choose between rugby, soccer or cricket. While I tried all three, it was cricket that stuck with me,” said Donovan Capes.

Since taking up cricket 15 years ago when he was in Grade 8, Donovan is still a keen cricket player.

“I have been playing for Phoenix Cricket Club now for five years, although I did leave for one year to try and form another team for cricket development. However, it did not work out and I am back with Phoenix,” he said.

Donovan thinks the youth are ignorant of opportunities the sport offered, and that a positive difference could be made if the municipality and cricket enthusiasts showed enough commitment.

“Last year, we had two high school players, but this year we only have one.The youth of the town always complain there is nothing to do, but why don’t they get involved in cricket?” he asked.

“Maybe if we focus on creating more cricket programmes, we can keep teenagers off the street and away from drinking.”

Donovan said once a person was bitten by the cricket bug, they would learn there was more to the game than fitness, and that the sport could benefit players positively in several aspects of their lives.

“While I enjoy batting, cricket is a team sport where everyone contributes. I think cricket builds character, as it teaches you patience and discipline.”

Donovan encouraged cricket enthusiasts to visit Phoenix on Monday and Wednesday evenings from 5pm at Huttenpark Primary School.

“While the season ends in April, people who want to play and practise with us, should come and see us. With enough commitment, we can boost cricket in Newcastle,” he concluded.