POLOKWANE – Members of the Seshego Cricket Club have bemoaned the lack of cricket, saying their lives have not been the same since the nationwide lockdown.
Batsman, Isaac Senatla says most of the players have found it difficult to cope with the regulations of the lockdown, saying it has been hard, especially because they are used to physical activity. “This is a difficult period for us. We definitely miss the cricket field, the nets, the smell of the ball, the vibe with the team and the firm grip on the bat. There is nothing we can do. We are waiting for Cricket South Africa (CSA) to tell us when we can resume training.”
Senatla added that players have been given individual training programmes to follow at home while waiting for CSA. He says he believes the club has the potential to produce world-class players as they have a group of young boys who are hungry and willing to succeed. “We want to help young players achieve their goals and grow cricket in Seshego. He told BONUS that the club has approached Lotanang, CM Sehlapelo, Dorothy Langa, Snell Phoshoko and Mashupye Tladi Primary Schools to scout for learners who are interested in playing the game and thus far, the response has been overwhelming,” he said.
Another member of the club, Kgolane Thupane said the lockdown gave them a different dimension and they are eager for the new cricket season to start. “This is the longest break the team has ever had. I think the boys will come back rejuvenated and stronger. We are itching to get back on the field and we are looking forward to that first training session when the lockdown is lifted.
“The International Cricket Council recently put restrictions on the game, banning the use of saliva to shine the ball as part of health safety protocols when the cricket season resumes.The use of saliva to shine the ball in cricket is one of the cultural habits which will be difficult for players to desist from.
Captain of the club, Katlego Sempe, says it will be difficult for players to adhere to the new regulations. “It will be difficult to eradicate the use of saliva because what are you going to replace the saliva with? Cricket is a high-risk game and we don’t want to lose the elements and authenticity of the game that make it unique. We need to keep that culture within the sport,” he said.
The club trains at the Seshego Sports Complex, next to the Seshego Stadium, but plays home matches at the Polokwane Cricket Club.
