WATCH: Seventh T20 Schools Challenge launched at Cricket South Africa
MELROSE ESTATE – The T20 Schools Challenge has become known for highlighting talented young cricketers in South Africa.
The popular Coca-Cola Schools T20 Challenge has kicked off its seventh year and will aim to highlight young and talented cricket players.
The tournament has grown substantially since it started and this year there will be 800 schools involved in the tournament. South African cricket player Temba Bavuma will be the ambassador for the tournament and will be travelling the country in search of the country’s brightest stars.
Since the tournament started it has produced Proteas superstars Quinton de Kock, Andile Phehlukwayo, Kagiso Rabada, and Lungi Ngidi.
Corrie van Zyl, the general manager of Cricket South Africa said, “We are very excited about this programme because it encapsulates both visions of Cricket South Africa which is access and excellence.”
Van Zyl said that the tournament allows 800 schools from around the country to all start off on the same foot, no matter where they come from.
Phindile Phiri, the senior brand experience manager at Coca-Cola said that the brand is passionate about investing development in sports at a grass-roots level.
“We pride ourselves in being a part of the story where talent is unearthed and heroes are made.”
She added that each year they have worked on coming up with new ways to ensure that more young people are exposed to the programme and are recognised for their talents.
Many players who are currently a part of the U19 South African team played in the T20 Schools Challenge and Van Zyl said that the tournament allows opportunities for the ‘cream of the crop’ to be selected for the U19 team.
Corrie van Zyl encouraged by players who partipated in T20 who have gone on to play professionally #whereheroesaremade #T20 @RK_Gazette
— Laura Pisanello (@LauraPisanello) February 12, 2018
However, he added that the tournament is about more than just selecting the best players. “It’s about giving everyone else the opportunity, whether there is a realistic chance of them moving to the next level or not, to be a part of something.”
Bavuma said, “I think as a young guy it’s a platform for you to go out there and express yourself, express your talent and be seen by everyone.”
Temba Bavuma says to T20 players – Have fun, savour the moment, cherish the friendships made #whereheroesaremade #T20 @RK_Gazette
— Rosebank Killarney (@RK_Gazette) February 12, 2018
Temba Bavuma, SA cricketer says T20 gives young players the opportunity to be seen #whereheroesaremade #T20 @RK_Gazette
— Rosebank Killarney (@RK_Gazette) February 12, 2018
Bavuma concluded that there is an abundance of talent in South Africa but it’s important to nurture and develop that talent.
Details: Coca-Cola Schools T20 Challenge
Has your school been involved with the T20 Schools Challenge? Share your stories with us on the Rosebank Killarney Gazette Facebook page.
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