Harlequins cricketer bats his way into KZN team

YOUNG and talented cricketer Ross Lourens Coetzee was selected to be part of the KZN Coastal U19 Cricket Team and is looking forward to competing at Khaya Majola Cricket Week set to take place in Makhanda, Grahamstown, from December 16 to 20.

The 17-year-old currently plays for the Harlequins Cricket Club’s XI team and the Kearsney XI cricket team. His positions for both teams are top-order batsman and right-arm-off spin bowler.

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Ross, a Grade 11 learner, said he was looking forward to the cricket week.

“It has been a goal of mine to make the U19 side, and I am so excited to be able to compete against some of the best young cricketers in South Africa.”

Ross said his passion for the sport started at a young age.

“I loved picking up a bat and hitting balls from a young age. I remember my dad throwing balls at me in the garden for hours. I started playing action cricket at six years old and fell in love with the game.

“Throughout my school years, I loved being part of a team and spending time batting or bowling. It doesn’t always go your way out on the field, but I enjoy the challenge of trying to win games,” he said.

Ross said he was inspired by various cricketers.

“From a batting perspective, Heinrich Klaasens is amazing at playing spin, Virat Kohli plays the best cover drive and AB de Villiers had amazing flair and an ability to play any shot. From a bowling perspective, I also really look up to Nathan Lyon, as he is one of the best off-spin bowlers,” he said.

Ross said some of his greatest achievements so far were being able to represent the province with his school’s first team in the promotional league and now playing with the Harlequins Cricket Club team in the premier league.

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“I have also had the opportunity to meet many players and coaches who have helped and guided me. One other highlight that will stay with me forever is captaining the U13 South Africa Team in the World Indoor Cricket Series held in Christchurch, New Zealand, and beating Australia in the final,” he said. Ross said his goal is to continue to work hard at cricket and to take any opportunity that arises.

“I currently play school matches on Saturdays and play for the Harlequins Cricket Club team in the premier league on Sundays. I am learning a lot by playing with more experienced players at my club, and under their guidance, I hope to contribute as much as I can.

“I have also been lucky enough to do a bit of coaching, and I really enjoyed it. I am hoping to take some courses and learn more about the technical side of the sport,” he said.

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