KZN Blind Cricket Hosts Inaugural Heritage Cup

In a ground-breaking initiative that harmonised sport with culture, the KwaZulu-Natal Blind Cricket community recently hosted the inaugural KZN Blind Cricket Heritage Cup, coinciding with South Africa’s Heritage Day celebrations.

The event brought together visually impaired players from diverse backgrounds, showcasing the inclusive spirit of the sport.

Traditionally observed as Shaka’s Day in honour of the Zulu king, 24 September is now Heritage Day – a time for South Africans to celebrate their rich cultural tapestry. On this day, individuals converge at the Shaka Memorial to pay homage to the legendary king. This year, KZN Blind Cricket took a significant step forward by organising the Heritage Cup, bringing together players from three Durban-based clubs: Amaqhawe, Disabled People’s Movement, and KZN Society for the Blind.

The tournament was held at Kingsmead Oval and Danville Park in Durban, where teams comprising SA Blind Cricket national team players, Dolphins players, male and female representatives, school players, and those from underprivileged communities, engaged in spirited competition.

In a surprising result, Amaqhawe emerged victorious in the round-robin format, overcoming the formidable KZN Society for the Blind Cricket team, which boasted national players.

Dr Khumbuzile Khumalo, a lecturer in UKZN’s Biokinetics, Exercise, and Leisure Sciences (BELS), voiced her admiration for blind cricket, calling for greater support from underprivileged communities and sponsors.

Khumalo stated: “I am honoured to be an African woman who understands the rules of blind cricket and learns a lot from the players. I’d like to see underprivileged communities show greater support to their children and get more sponsors.”

Collaboration was evident at the tournament between UKZN and the Discipline of Biokinetics, Exercise, and Leisure Sciences, with students volunteering to assist blind players. The students, Ms Nokwethemba Mwelase, Ms Nosihle Buthelezi, Ms Yamukela Nxele, and Ms Thembekile Mathebula, shared their memorable experiences, emphasising the life lessons learned and connections formed.

Throughout the tournament, the display of sportsmanship caught the attention of participants and spectators alike. Despite the intensity of the matches, there was a prevailing spirit of fair play and respect, fostering an environment of camaraderie.

Mr Ndumiso Nyawose, the President of KZN Blind Cricket, lauded the success of the Heritage Cup, emphasizing its significance in showcasing talent within the province. He thanked sponsors including Ashraful Aid, KZN Coastal Cricket Union, Quarry Lake Lodge, UKZN (BELS), and the Social Media supporters, acknowledging their invaluable contributions to the event’s success.

Nyawose concluded: “All participants look forward to an even better and bigger competition in 2024,” signifying the anticipation for the continued growth of blind cricket in KwaZulu-Natal.

Words: Nombuso Damini
Photograph: Supplied