IT may have been a disappointing end to South African team’s run at this year’s ICC U19 World Cup in New Zealand, but there was a silver lining for local cricketer, Andile Mokgakane. The Northwood School Grade 11 learner said the competition allowed him to live one of his dreams, representing his country on the grandest stages.
The young Proteas finished fifth at the competition after cruising to an eight-wicket victory over Bangladesh in their final game. Mokgakane who only got to play two games (a warm-up game and a pool game) at the tournament said the experience was invaluable.
“This was my first World Cup and my first time going overseas so I just soaked up the atmosphere. I enjoyed each and every moment with the boys and overall, it was a great experience. I managed to play a warm-up game against the hosts New Zealand, and then played in the pool game against the same opponents. I managed to get one wicket in my first over and only managed three with the bat in a losing cause. It was disappointing to lose the game but I feel I gained so much from the tournament as a whole,” he said.
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Mokgakane said one of his proudest moments was receiving his Protea jersey.
“It doesn’t matter what competition I’m in but it’s hard to describe how proud I am to be able to wear the Protea jersey and represent my country. Every time I put on that jersey, there’s just goosebumps,” he said.
The 18-year-old now hopes to make the Protea squad for the upcoming test series against England in the UK in June.
“I’m just focusing on being consistent with my performances and helping my teams at Crusaders Cricket Club and Northwood’s first team. I would love to be part of the squad to play England and hope the selectors take note of my performances,” he said.
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