Grayor Julius’ passion for cricket blossomed early, with him picking up a bat for the first time at just two years old.
His love for the sport has only deepened over the years, even as his school, Freeway Park Primary, no longer offers cricket as an extracurricular activity.
Terence Lord, his uncle, recalls how Julius’ commitment to the sport serendipitously led to his selection for the Benoni Primary Schools Cricket team because the Boksburg Primary Schools Cricket team was already full.
In this competitive setting, the youngster distinguished himself among 60 participants.
According to Lord, Julius’ father, Kurtley, also played a role in his love for cricket, although no one forced the sport on him.
“Cricket was how they bonded,” he explained, noting that this natural love for the game fuelled Julius’ determination to pursue cricket at a higher level.
At just 11, his involvement in the Christian Brother College (CBC) Cricket Club was instrumental in his development as a young cricketer.
His uncle highlighted how the club instilled in him the values of teamwork and sportsmanship.
“Whether they win or lose, he has learnt to keep a positive spirit. The club has also helped Grayor build confidence in his abilities, particularly when he scored his first 50 runs, a milestone that gave him the drive to push himself further.”
Balancing his academic responsibilities with his passion for cricket can be challenging, but Julius seems to have mastered time management.
“‘I play cricket first, then do my homework’,” Lord explained.
In addition to role models, Julius looks up to several cricketing legends.
“He admires Dale Steyn for his exceptional bowling, Jimmy Anderson for his mastery of swing, Ben Stokes for his all-rounder skills and Kumar Sangakkara for his flawless left-hand cover drive.
These players inspire Grayor to sharpen his skills and strive for excellence,” said Lord.
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Family and community play a significant role in supporting his cricketing journey.
“We have a system called Rent-a-Crowd. Relatives take turns attending his games to ensure he always has a cheering squad.
“This rotating support system has been crucial in keeping Grayor motivated and confident.
“Grayor also often organises street cricket games with neighbourhood kids, occasionally joined by their fathers, further strengthening his ties to the community.”
On the important tournaments ahead, like the Easterns Schools Tournament, Julius’ mental preparation is just as vital as his physical training.
“He always says, ‘Pray, pray, pray. Pray every day’,” Lord said, revealing how his nephew remains focused on the challenges ahead through his strong faith.
Setting Julius apart is his unique combination of left-hand batting and right-hand bowling.
His determination to constantly improve is evident because he often practices in the hallway late at night.
“He’s always looking for ways to improve.
“This commitment extends to his rigorous training schedule, which involves practising five days a week under the guidance of four coaches, including sessions at the Rowlin National Academy with coach Ian Smith and training with former Easterns players Clayton August and Michael Heger from the Cricket Excellence Academy.
“With big dreams of representing SA one day, Grayor is well on his way to making his mark in the cricketing world,” said Terence.
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