Indians player grateful for opportunity to represent SA

Benoni Northerns Indians catcher Josh Cook (13) is delighted and looking forward to representing SA in the World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC) U15 World Cup in Colombia from August 16 to 25.

This will be Cook’s second successive world cup appearance after turning out for the country in the WBSC U12 global showpiece in Taiwan two years ago.

SA has been drawn in Group B, alongside Mexico, Chinese Taipei, Venezuela, Netherlands and Nicaragua. They open their account against the Mexicans on August 16.

“I’m very proud to represent my country. It’s a good achievement. I look forward to going to the event in August,” said the Benoni High Grade Eight learner.

The youngster was selected in the 20-man SA squad following a string of impressive performances for his team and Gauteng at the National Baseball Championships (NBC) in March and April.

“I got off to a rough start at the NBC but got back on track. I played very well in the last few games of the tournament and I think this resulted in my selection,” said Cook.

He credited his success to hard work, saying, “It takes a lot of effort to get there and I had to work really hard”.

The utility player thanked his Benoni Indians coaches for moulding him into the disciplined, hard-working and dedicated player he is.

“If it weren’t for all of you, I wouldn’t be here. Thanks for all your help.”

Cook’s teammate, Logan Gardener also made it into head-coach Clive Pretorius’ world cup squad, albeit as a non-travelling reserve.

He was also a non-travelling reserved for the U12 world cup in 2022.

The youngster started playing baseball at the age of eight. He said this is huge achievement for him considering he’s only been playing U15 baseball for just under two years.

“I’m proud of myself and all I’ve achieved in my career. I’ve worked very hard for this opportunity. If I do go to the tournament, I’m going shed a few tears because I would be representing my country,” he said.

“At the NBC, I brought a lot of positivity to the team and helped my teammates to perform at their absolute best. Thanks to all my coaches for what they’ve done for me. Without them, I wouldn’t be this good.”

Benoni Indians Junior Baseball chairperson, Clifford White wished the players well as they continue their preparation for the tournament.

“Both players have shown exceptional skill and produced the results required for selection to this year’s showcase. They are familiar with this process as both were selected in the U12 world cup side in 2022,” said White.

He added, “As Benoni Indians, we are extremely proud of our players and their selection. We accredit their selection to their hard work and dedication. These players have work tirelessly with their coaches and in their teams to hone their skills. They have achieved a massive accolade”.

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