Burma Lads Cricket Club – grounded in history, excited about the future
Seen from back left to right: Z Swarts, N Baird, T JV Rensburg, R Williams, R Van Staden, N Jansen, N Plaaitjies. Seated from left: T Traugott, R Joseph (chairman), A Brooker (captain), P JV Rensburg (sponsor), G Bruwer, R Baardt. Picture: Danie van der Lith
The newly-named Avanti Burma Lads Cricket Club, a cornerstone of cricket in Kimberley, are celebrating more than eight decades of sporting excellence. Founded in 1942 by renowned local sports personality AR Abass, the club has risen to become the most successful cricket team in the Northern Cape.
Now, under the leadership of Chairman Ricky Joseph, the Burma Lads team has earned a reputation for both their dominance on the field and their contributions to cricket development.
Speaking to the DFA recently, Joseph proudly shared a little bit about the club’s illustrious history: “Our club has attended the national Club Champs on more than 10 occasions, with the winner of the regional tournaments earning a place at nationals. This is a testament to the talent and dedication within our ranks,” he said.
Burma Lads’ presence in the Frances Baard Cricket Association (FBCA) league is undeniable, with the club now boasting four teams, including a women’s team, and they are even set to introduce a junior team this year.
Their success isn’t just in numbers but also in nurturing top-tier talent. The club has been a launching pad for cricketing greats like Reeza Hendricks and Patrick Kruger, both current Proteas players , and other notable players like Aubrey Swanepoel, Gihahn Cloete, and Aidan Brooker.
Rising stars such as Tristan Janse van Rensburg, Naziel Adams, and Richard Baardt, who currently represent the Northern Cape Heats academy, are a testament to the club’s continued commitment to developing future cricketing legends.
The club’s dominance extends to the shorter formats as well. “We are the reigning T20 champions in the Northern Cape, and we’re excited for the season opener happening this weekend,” Joseph added.
The club’s success is also buoyed by the support of key sponsors. The main and naming sponsor, AVANTI Communications, is a global leader in satellite technology, expanding its reach into Africa.
CEO Kyle Whitehill spoke to the DFA and shared the club's vision of nurturing local talent and providing a platform for future cricket stars. AVANTI’s involvement is expected to propel the club’s growth and future successes.
The club is also partnering with AVANTI in a significant community initiative, the regeneration of the HC Rose Cricket Ground in Gemdene, Kimberley. This project will further cement the club’s role in giving back to the local community.
Another key sponsor, The Security Group-SA, led by CEO Pieter Janse Van Rensburg, has brought international security expertise to the table. Van Rensburg’s son Tristan plays for Burma Lads, which sparked his decision to sponsor the club.
A long-time supporter, Weird Industries, continues to play a pivotal role. Jehan Richards, a former player and passionate supporter, has ensured that Burma Lads stays afloat through his unwavering support.
With a history of excellence, an eye on the future, and steadfast community involvement, the Avanti Burma Lads Cricket Club stands as a beacon of pride for Kimberley and the Northern Cape.