AmaQhawe Triumphs in the 2024 Blind Cricket Heritage Cup

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Blind cricket in KwaZulu-Natal and across South Africa reached a new milestone with the recent Heritage Cup, where visually impaired cricketers showcased exceptional talent and determination.

Organised by the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) in collaboration with the KwaZulu-Natal Association for Blind Cricket (KZNABC) and the KwaZulu-Natal Society for the Blind (KZNSB), the tournament recently unfolded at the Chatsworth Cricket Oval, Durban. Originally scheduled as a three-day event, it was condensed into a single day of high-energy competition due to adverse weather.

Five teams participated: AmaQhawe, Scorpions, Umbilo Giant Killers, Tshwane University of Technology (TUT), and Van Der Stel. In a thrilling final, AmaQhawe defended their title against Umbilo Giant Killers, winning by five wickets with just one ball remaining. The champions clinched the victory with a score of 85/5 in 7.5 overs, solidifying their place as the 2024 Heritage Cup victors.

The tournament also recognised outstanding individual performances, including Best Bowler (Luthando Naki, AmaQhawe), Best Female Player (Zodwa Mankenkeza, Umbilo Giant Killers), and Best Male Player (Tebza Moloisane, Umbilo Giant Killers). TUT claimed third place, while Umbilo Giant Killers received silver medals for their efforts.

Dr Khumbuzile Khumalo, a UKZN lecturer, expressed deep admiration for blind cricket, urging greater support from communities and sponsors for visually impaired athletes. She acknowledged Professor Rowena Naidoo’s support for the event, underscoring the significance of raising awareness and accessibility for blind cricket.

Mr Ndumiso Nyawose, President of KZN Blind Cricket, praised the Heritage Cup’s success, highlighting its role in promoting blind cricket nationwide. He extended gratitude to the sponsors, including Mondi Group, Oasis Water, Spar Kingsmead, UKZN, Dolphins Cricket Union, Chatsworth Cricket Club, KZNSB, the KZN Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, Ashraful Aid, and others for their invaluable contributions to the tournament’s success.

Looking to 2025, Nyawose anticipates an even larger and more competitive Heritage Cup, as blind cricket continues to grow and inspire in KZN.

Honours in Biokinetics, Exercise and Leisure Science students, Mr Michael Radebe and Ms Sphumelele Dlamini, supported the tournament as part of the medical team and scorers. They reflected on the event as ‘an insightful experience,’ highlighting valuable lessons in adaptive sports and the importance of tailored support for players with varying visual impairments.

Mr Mathula Dlamini, KwaZulu-Natal Society for the Blind’s Sports, Arts, and Recreation Coordinator, celebrated the event’s success, noting, ‘This tournament brings incredible development potential for blind cricket at municipal, provincial, and national levels, especially in underprivileged areas. All clubs share the vision of advancing blind cricket, and our sponsors played a crucial role in making this tournament a success.’

The KZN Society for the Blind extended gratitude to all participants, volunteers, and supporters, emphasising their commitment to ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to participate and grow through sports.

Words: Nombuso Dlamini

Photograph: Supplied