Spot on Proteas edges closer

He may be dwarfed by other players due his small stature, but that is simply because young St Dominic’s Academy pupil, Mohammed Cassim plays two years above his age group.

The 10-year-old superstar was recently selected to play cricket for the KwaZulu-Natal under 11 Inland Squad, as well as the St Dominic’s Academy u/13 cricket side.

Clearly he is still in his development phase, but the potential young Mohammed shows, is undeniable.

Each and every one of his coaching staff, have high hopes for the young lad, and each one believes that one day, this young player will be playing for the Proteas.

Some believe this will happen sooner rather than later.

“He has an excellent feature, his focus, commitment and gentleman mannerisms are some of the factors which will ensure his future,” said Head of Sport of the Senior Primary division, Eian Marillier.

Mr Marrilier added that Mohammed was a model pupil.

His father Hussein Cassim, has huge hopes for his son and constantly motivates him forward in his cricketing career.

“Playing above his age group has been challenging for him, but he has stepped up to the crease, his coaches have given him the right knowledge to battle it out,” said Mr Cassim.

Johan Jacobs is Mohammed’s coach in school and privately, he has the best working knowledge of Mohammed’s potential and growth.

“Within the next few years, if Mohammed keeps developing like this he will make the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial side soon enough, and thereafter the Protea’s Junior Squad,” he believed.

What about young Mohammed himself? When asked how he felt about the game and his improvement, he answered humbly, “I just want to keep playing and practising.”

Mohammed has started practising even harder, and feels at times the game can be challenging, but he smiles and keeps pushing, even after losing his wicket in unlucky circumstances.

The key to his success at this young age is his dedication, and sports fans should take note that dedication like this breeds success.