UPDATE: Friends and colleagues pay tribute to Mncedisi Radebe
He was buried in Daveyton on October 5.
A sombre atmosphere filled Willowmoore Park on October 3, as family, friends, and members of the Eastern Cricket Union came together to honour the life of Mncedisi Radebe (34), the head groundsman, during an emotional memorial service.
Radebe was killed on New Modder Road on September 27 after he fell off his motorcycle and was struck by two vehicles at around 20:00.
According to Captain Nomsa Sekele, spokesperson for the Benoni Police Station, police found a rope at the scene, which they believe was threaded across the road by criminals to hook his bike.
She said police are witnessing this new modus operandi for hijacking motorbikes. His motorcycle was taken to the police station, and a case of culpable homicide has been opened at the Benoni SAPS.
The service was filled with heartfelt tributes, highlighting his exceptional dedication to his work and his warm, humble spirit both on and off the field.
Wesley Coulentianos, the CEO of the Eastern Cricket Union, read a message from Sipho Dlamini, the stadium manager, who couldn’t attend the service.
Dlamini said Radebe’s dedication, expertise, and passion for crafting exceptional cricket pitches earned him respect, and his work received triple A-plus ratings from international match commentators and umpires.
“This was a testament to your exceptional skill. Your commitment and passion for your work will never be replaced. As my head groundsman, you were more than just a colleague; you were a friend and mentor.
“Your absence will be deeply felt, and I’ll miss our conversations about cricket,” said Dlamini.
Coulentianos, who has known Radebe for over 10 years, described him as a kind person who always had a smile on his face.
“He was a silent hero. He was not scared of hard work and never asked for recognition,” he said.
Radebe’s close friend and colleague of 16 years, Mzoxolo Mcatshiswa, broke down as he shared fond memories of his friend.
“He was like a family member to me; he taught me this job. He was committed and could do everything without complaining. We shared everything but will continue to raise his flag,” said Mcatshiswa.
The director of transformation at the union, Adrian Landsberg, said that in the last two years, they’ve seen Radebe grow tremendously in a job he loved for so many years.
“He will remain in our hearts and spirit,” he said. Radebe was buried in Daveyton on October 5.
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