WATCH:Hard work pays off for ‘Big Mitch’

King Edward VII School has once again produced a cricket gem to look out for in the future, and his name is Mitchell van Burren.

The 17-year-old, affectionately known as ‘Big Mitch’ by his teammates, has been rewarded for his hard work and perseverance. He was named the Gauteng U17 Player of the Year at the annual Gauteng Cricket Board Awards on 12 May.

Van Burren earned a national call-up to the SA U19 team cricket team which is scheduled to tour Sri Lanka next month.

The prolific right-handed batsman had a phenomenal season last year as he recorded 1 060 runs at an average of 39 for the first team.

Despite having a great season, Van Burren believes that it could have been a lot better. “I performed when it mattered the most and that certainly contributed to where I got to now,” he said.

The success did not come without any challenges for the young star as he missed out on team call-ups on a number of occasions, although he had a great season.

KES XI coach, Gordon Matheson was full of praise for young Van Burren and said his drive and passion for the game is what makes a great player. “He had quite a tough year last year, where he was left out of some teams and camps and that actually amplified his hunger and desire.”

Van Burren said he looks up to a lot of cricketers, but his role model is his cousin-brother, Greame (SURNAME) who currently plays franchise cricket for the Unlimited Titans.

“Graeme has probably been my biggest role model; and also the ex-Australian cricket captain, Micheal Clarke – he is one of my role models as well. I have sort of modeled my batting technique on his because I love the way he bats,” said Van Burren.

The stroke-making Grade 12 pupil really flourished with the bat in his hand and thanked all the various coaches who have helped him get where he is today.

On his selection to the SA U19 team, Van Burren said it has always been his dream to represent his country and hopes to make notable contributions to the team. “I am very excited for the tour, it has been a dream of mine to make the side, and finally making it means a lot to me. I am looking forward to the challenge and contributing as much as I can to the team.”

Now in his last year at school, Van Burren hopes to follow in the footsteps of other KES old boys who have gone on to play franchise cricket and donned the green and gold.