Awqaf SA 100 Youth Cricket Tournament a resounding success

UMR HURTER

FOR the eighth consecutive year, the South African Youth Hundred Cricket Tournament was hosted by Awqaf SA in collaboration with Primrose Cricket Club and the Western Province Cricket Association.

Approximately 3 000 spectators watched the four days of play on the Primrose Cricket Club grounds from December 14 to 17.

Ardent cricket fans lined the embankments and the clubhouse in support of their favourites, ensuring a good-natured atmosphere and a deep sense of sporting community.

The tournament aims to promote equality of opportunity and social cohesion among young people from different backgrounds.

The event, which uses cricket as a platform for harmony and sportsmanship, is free for participants, guaranteeing an inclusive environment for people of all social and economic backgrounds. According to Hasanain Abdullah, Project Manager at Awqaf SA, the tournament is so much more than just a game of cricket. ‘Awqaf SA’s 100 Youth Cricket Tournament epitomises the transformative power of sport. It promotes youth development, unity, and resilience. In playing top Western Cape teams, young players discover not only competitiveness but also escape and hope amidst societal challenges.’ The entire tournament was streamed live, and those who could not make it on the day could follow the progress of their favourite teams from the comfort of their homes.

The chairman of Belhar Cricket Club, Darryl Wymers, shared his positive experience: ‘A very thrilling and exciting, well-organised tournament. Our U12s really enjoyed every minute of it, and we will definitely be back next year. Keep up the good work!’

Shaheema Bardien, Youth Convenor for the Ottomans Cricket Club, had the following to add: ‘The tournament’s positive impact on the youth cricket scene is undeniable, fostering a love for the game, instilling values of teamwork and discipline, and inspiring the next generation of cricketers. The tournament’s ability to engage the local community and cricket enthusiasts added to its success. The support from fans and families created a vibrant atmosphere around the matches. Beyond the competitive aspect, the tournament offered entertainment value, with thrilling moments, close matches, and individual brilliance that captivated the audience and kept them invested in the games. With such a successful tournament, there is optimism about the future of cricket, as these young talents are likely to become the backbone of the sport, potentially representing their country at higher levels.’

Nuraan Abrahams, coach of Fish Rite Hanover Park Cricket Club, also sang the tournament’s praises: ‘The Awqaf cricket tournament was an exhilarating experience for me. What stood out the most was the incredible teamwork displayed by everyone involved. Each player brought their best to the field, fostering a strong sense of unity within our team. Moreover, the sportsmanship was exceptional, making every game a testament to fair play and respect for opponents. Being part of such a positive environment has enhanced my cricket skills and taught me invaluable lessons about teamwork and camaraderie.’

Ielhaam Abrahams has been managing the Primrose U16 team for two seasons and is exceptionally proud of her team’s achievement as the U16 Primrose Cricket Club Champions. She had this to say: ‘The talent and cricketing skills we have within the team run deep. I call them my “Silent Warriors”; their determination, grit, and love of the game are exceptional.’

This year’s tournament featured 30 teams, ranging from Under-12 to Under-18, with women’s teams making their debut. The Under-19 ladies’ team from Victoria Cricket Club clinched the title by defeating Mutual Cricket Club in the finals.

Diverse communities and backgrounds were represented during this year’s tournament, with players from Solomon Makhosana Cricket Club in Khayelitsha; the Gugulethu Cricket Club; Mitchells Plain Cricket Club; Hanover Park Cricket Club; Tygerberg Cricket Club; and Stellenbosch Cricket Club.

A few players made an indelible impression during the tournament and are touted as stars of the future. They are: U16 Best Batsman: Victoria CC’s Cameron Macbeth, who scored 169 runs in the tournament; U16 Best Bowler: Thaafier Japhta from Primrose CC, who took 10 wickets; U18 Best Batsman: Yaseen Moos from Primrose CC, who scored 196 runs in the tournament; and U18 Best Bowler: Tygerberg’s Tristan Fortune with 11 wickets. A special mention goes to Mikha-il Gaidien (Primrose CC) for his excellent bowling and fielding performances.