‘I’m thrilled to join the Proteas for the first time!’

By Nkhensani Mthombeni

Don Radebe’s dream of playing for South Africa has finally come true. He has been chosen to represent the Proteas at the 2024 Hong Kong Sixes – a six-a-side international cricket tournament – starting on Friday, 1 November.

Radebe grew up in Nkowankowa township near Tzaneen in Limpopo and is very happy about his first national call-up.

“I feel so blessed and excited to be representing my country at the HK6; it has always been a dream to be part of any national team in cricket,” he said. 

Radebe plays for Limpopo Impala Cricket Club in Polokwane under coach Gordon Parsons.

This year has been a major success for Radebe, as he was named Best Senior Provincial Bowler and recently won the T20 Knockout Player of the Season at the Cricket South Africa Awards.

His achievements are even more impressive, considering that he spent the 2022-23 season off the field due to circumstances beyond his control.

Reflecting on his comeback, he said he had surprised himself, “and it’s made me see that I’m capable of achieving anything I put my heart and mind to”.

Radebe heads into the tournament with a winning mindset and hopes to claim victory for South Africa while also making a name for himself.

Apart from Radebe, the South African squad includes Aubrey Swanepoel, Evan Jones, Jacques Snyman, Luthando Midiri, Matthew Boast and captain JJ Smuts.

The team will compete against 12 other countries, including cricket powerhouses India and Pakistan. On the opening day, South Africa will play their first match against the host nation, Hong Kong.

Pictured above: Don Radebe is thrilled to represent South Africa for the first time at the 2024 Hong Kong Sixes.

Source: Supplied