Thando to follow in Makhaya’s footsteps

CAPE TOWN. — Thando Ntini is among a few sons of international cricketers in action at the Under-19 Cricket World Cup and is looking to display his potential in a tournament that showcases future stars every two years.

Makhaya Ntini’s son, Thando, grabbed four for 56 on his debut for the South Africa Under-19 team against the Windies earlier this year.

The 17- year- old compares his approach to that of India captain Virat Kohli even though as a player he is much different, being a left-handed batsman and right-arm pace bowler.

His cricketing idol is not far from home.

“I started playing cricket in the passages of hotels with the Proteas as a three-year- old. My father played, so I followed in his footsteps,” said Ntini in an ICC press release.

Another famous son to feature in the Under-19 Cricket World Cup tournament includes Austin Waugh, the son of former Australia captain Steve Waugh.

Waugh, who likens his game to that of India all-rounder Hardik Pandya and whose favourite cricketer is late Australia batsman Phil Hughes for his “free flowing technique,” wants to make the most of his potential in New Zealand.

“I’m aiming to test myself against the best players from around the world. I want to make the most of my potential and see how far it can take me. All three formats attract me as I enjoy testing my skills and being able to adapt from format to format,” said Waugh.

Giving Waugh company in the Australia squad is Will Sutherland, son of James Sutherland, Cricket Australia’s Chief Executive who represented Victoria in the domestic circuit till 199394. Sutherland, like Waugh, was one of Australia’s key performers in a recent series against the Sri Lanka Under-19 team.

South Africa feature in Group A alongside tournament hosts New Zealand, Windies and Kenya.