Ambassador Tshepo Ntuli leads the charge for Hoërskool Diamantveld Cricket Festival

Danie van der Lith|Published 7 months ago

The Diamantveld High School Cricket Festival is set to bring together 18 schools from across the country, and this year's event promises to be a spectacle of top-tier cricket. At the heart of this event is Tshepo Ntuli, a player from the Northern Cape Heat, who has been appointed as the ambassador of the festival. Picture: Danie van der Lith

THE DIAMANTVELD High School Cricket Festival, scheduled for early October, is set to bring together 18 schools from across the country for what promises to be a spectacle of top-tier cricket.

At the heart of this event is Tshepo Ntuli, a player from the Northern Cape Heat, who has been appointed as the festival’s ambassador. Ntuli's enthusiasm and commitment to the role are evident as he prepares to inspire the young cricketers who will participate in the tournament.

Ntuli told the DFA that he is honoured to be associated with such a prestigious school and event. “To be an ambassador for a well-known school like Diamantveld is always nice,” he said. “The school has achieved so many honours over the years, not only in cricket but in other sporting codes. Therefore, being a part of the upcoming festival, I certainly do take it to heart,” he added.

As a Northern Cape Heat player, Ntuli knows the importance of setting a positive example for young cricketers. He views his role as an ambassador for the entire Heat team.

“Being a Heat player should speak volumes on its own because we are a team that prides itself on the way we carry ourselves on and off the field," Ntuli explained. He aims to inspire young cricketers, especially from the Northern Cape, by demonstrating love for the game and determination for success.

With 18 schools competing, Ntuli has high expectations for the level of competition at this year's festival. He believes that the intense preparation and excitement surrounding the tournament will lead to high-level cricket being played from day one.

Seen is the Diamantveld Under-19 cricket team, back (from left): Vernon Rossouw, Francois Holtzhausen, Henrico van Staden, Danie van der Merwe, Hanru Rademeyer, Aiden Jacobs, Tiaan Coetzee, Benjamin Potgieter, Arno Mostert, Nathan Baird. Front (from left): Kaiden van Wyk, Luhan de la Rey (captain), Erlank Barnard (coach), Simon Liversage (vice-captain), and Sarel Kriek. Picture: Danie van der Lith

“As cricketers, we don’t play games (just) to compete; we play games to dominate and win some silverware. That gives more motivation and sets the benchmark for where we want to be. Therefore, I’m expecting nothing less when it comes to this tournament,” Ntuli remarked.

He said that he anticipates that the different coaches and players will be eager to make their mark, leading to an exciting and intense festival.

Ntuli also sees the festival as a crucial opportunity for the development of cricket in the Northern Cape and South Africa as a whole. He believes that playing against the best schools in the country will help fast-track the boys’ awareness and execution of their plans and skills.

With the festival of cricket just more than one month away, Ntuli shared a heartfelt message for the participating teams.

“Firstly, I wish all the participants the very best of luck and (that they) enjoy the experience. Many people would love to take this opportunity, but because you guys are the chosen ones to represent your schools/hubs, don’t take it for granted,” he advised.

He also encouraged the players to engage with different coaches and players, mingle after the games, and share ideas to sharpen their skills quickly. Ntuli also urged them to enjoy the city of Kimberley, known for its rich history and friendly people.

With Tshepo Ntuli leading the charge as Ambassador, the Diamantveld High School Cricket Festival is poised to be an unforgettable event, showcasing the best of young cricket talent in South Africa.