Scoring 100 top of young cricketer’s list
IT WAS during a Cricket South Africa Under-17 Week in Grahamstown in 2012 when all-rounder Gavin Reddy decided to take the sport seriously.
After working his way up the ranks, the modest former Umzinto Secondary School pupil now finds himself at the KZN Cricket Academy for a second season, where he is preparing for a busy programme with the team.
This includes heading to Potchefstroom next month to take on Free State, North West and Pukke’s (North West University) academy outfits. The group will then combine with the KZN Inland set-up for a Colts assignment in September.
“I am looking forward to the next few months with the academy,” Reddy said. “I have set some goals, like scoring a century and taking five wicket hauls on a regular basis.
“I want to keep pushing boundaries, and push myself every day to my limits, becoming a better person not just in cricket but in life.”
Having watched Senuran Muthusamy and Rabian Engelbrecht graduate from the academy and become full members of the Sunfoil Dolphins squad, Reddy believes he is on the right path.
“I would like to play first-class cricket for the Dolphins provincial team and one day South Africa,” he says.
“I am working hard at the academy and in the gym every day, making sure my preparations are proper so that when match days come, I know I’ve done all I can.
“At this stage, it is important for me to understand the different situations during games and the change in formats we play. For me, it’s a learning experience, one I will master soon.”
The KZN Academy has lost just one game in its last 25 and Reddy knows it is important for him to continue to make meaningful contributions.
“It is important to try to retain our champion status during the academy week in September.”
Last week, Reddy was part of a team-building experience at Shongweni. He says the exercise helped players forge important bonds.
“I enjoyed it very much. It was a real eye-opening experience.
“Teamwork and brotherhood are the most important things I’ve learnt, knowing that the guy next to you has your back.
“With that kind of support, you can conquer your greatest fears.”