Northern Cape Heat bid farewell to Captain Kemm as new era begins

As the Northern Cape Heat prepare for the 2025/26 domestic cricket season, the squad is undergoing one of its most significant transitions yet – one that begins with a heartfelt farewell.

Among the departures is former captain Ernest Kemm, whose leadership and performances have been central to the Heat’s recent successes. The Potchefstroom-born all-rounder, an opening batsman who rose through the ranks at Hoërskool Menlopark, leaves behind a legacy defined by resilience and ambition. “It was really special to lift the CSA 4-Day trophy two years in a row,” Kemm said, reflecting on some of his happiest cricket memories.

Kemm has signed with Easterns for the coming season, marking the end of an era for the Heat. His move is part of a broader shift, with Hardus Viljoen (Tuskers), Modiri Litheko (Warriors), Ruan Haasbroek and Cole Abrahams (both to Knights), and Emmanuel Motswiri and CP Klijnhans (both to Limpopo) also moving on.

With key figures departing, the Heat are entering a rebuilding phase – but there is excitement too, as a fresh wave of talent arrives.

Leading the incoming group is left-arm spinner Odirile Modimokoane, a prized signing from North West. The South Africa A and former Dolphins player brings high-level experience and has the potential to be a major force in the Heat’s bowling attack. In the 2024/25 season, Modimokoane took nine wickets in limited appearances for North West, underlining his pedigree.

He is joined by other strategic acquisitions aimed at deepening the squad’s quality:

• Morne Venter (Limpopo)

• Garnett Tarr (Knights)

• Nonenela Yikha (Mpumalanga)

• Thamsanqa Kumalo (North West)

• Nhlakanipho Mpungose (Knights)

With a blend of experienced recruits and emerging talents, the Northern Cape Heat are charting a bold new course. While the contributions of players like Kemm will not be forgotten, the focus now shifts to integrating the new arrivals and sustaining the team’s competitive edge in the seasons ahead.