UKZN Supports Historic Launch of KZN Blind Women’s Cricket

The inaugural training camp for the KwaZulu-Natal Blind Ladies Cricket Team marked a significant milestone for inclusive sport in South Africa when it was hosted at Kingsmead Stadium in Durban.

The pioneering initiative, spearheaded by the KwaZulu-Natal Association of Blind Cricket (KZABC), brought together women from across the province for the first official training camp of the newly established KZN Women’s Blind Cricket Team.

Playing a central role in the success of the camp was Dr Khumbuzile Khumalo, a lecturer in the College of Health Sciences’ Bachelor of Exercise and Leisure Sciences (BELS) programme at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN). Serving as team manager, Khumalo contributed extensively to coaching, performance analysis, logistics and team motivation throughout the intensive three-day programme.

The camp featured skills development sessions, match play, leadership training and team-building activities, with support from national blind cricket players and coaches. The programme laid the foundation for the team’s future participation in inter-provincial competitions, including a planned fixture against the Western Cape later this year.

Khumalo said the experience highlighted the immense potential within the squad. “The talent displayed was phenomenal, especially for a first camp. These women are ready to compete. I sincerely hope they receive the sponsorship and support they deserve to continue on this journey,” said Khumalo.

UKZN’s contribution extended beyond team management, with former Sport Science students Ms Nokwethemba Mwelase and Ms Nosihle Buthelezi, alongside current honours student Ms Amahle Mhlongo, assisting with scoring and match logistics.

Their involvement demonstrated the University’s ongoing commitment to community engagement, disability sport development and gender inclusivity in sport.

The successful hosting of the camp represents a major step forward for blind cricket and women’s sport in KwaZulu-Natal, while reinforcing UKZN’s role in advancing inclusive sporting opportunities and empowering athletes of all abilities.

Words: Nombuso Dlamini

Photograph: Supplied