Cameron’s cricket career keeps soaring
RANDPARK RIDGE – Brunner has to learn how to balance school and playing for his province.
Cameron Brunner has been selected for the Gauteng Schools U17A team.
It has been a long process for Brunner to reach his goal of making the team. It all started when his school, Rand Park High, sent him to trials where he was selected and then participated in the Co-eds Cricket Week.
During this week, 72 players competed, with 36 being selected for the next weekend of trials. These 36 players went up against the top 36 players from boys’ schools in early October. The selectors finally chose players for the U17A, U17B, U19A, and U19B teams on 9 October.
Four warm-up games have been scheduled. The first one is on 13 November against Northerns. “We then play against teams from Limpopo, North West and Eastern Province. The National Week starts on 11 December,” said Brunner who was selected to play as a left-hand fast opening bowler, but he can bat well too.
This is where all the provincial teams compete for potential selection in the South African U17 Squad.
“I am over-the-moon about the selection because it’s something I have been working towards since I was eight. I have always been selected for an area side, but never progressed to the provincial team. Hard work and plenty of hours in the nets finally paid off,” said Brunner.
He said it’s hard to find a balance between school and cricket. “I have fitness sessions three times a week; training every Friday and games over the weekend. The only time left to study is late at night. I tend to go to bed a lot later than usual to try and fit in studying and school work.”
Brunner said he owes his success to his parents, who have attended every game and always offered their support. “If it wasn’t for them, I wouldn’t have been able to achieve as much as I have.”
His father, Peter said, “We are exceptionally proud of him. It’s a big achievement. He has worked so hard and spent many hours on cricket fields.”
Young Brunner added that his school coach, Jimmy Breakey, has worked with him since Grade 8. “Also thanks to Kurt Humane, my coach at Randburg Cricket Club. I have attended the club since the age of four and he saw my potential, pushed me and encouraged me to succeed.”
