New chapter for top opener
Fresh from making the SA schools team, Caleb Pillay focuses on playing for KZN Inland
CALEB Pillay’s call-up to the national schools team at the end of last month’s Coca-cola Khaya Majola Cricket Week in Cape Town capped a sterling junior cricket career.
Like most youngsters, he fell in love with the game in his own backyard after he was introduced to the sport by his dad.
The 18-year-old from Chatsworth has been among the country’s most consistent junior opening batters over the past few years. In his final national schools tournament, he proved his worth, amassing 151 runs at an impressive average of 37.7 for the KZN Coastal team.
The gritty left-hander is ready for the next step of his journey as he heads to the University of Kwazulunatal to study for a degree in commerce, and gets set to play cricket for KZN Inland.
“I am excited about the new challenge. I have heard great things about Inland cricket and I cannot wait to get going,” said Pillay.
The former Westville Boys’ High pupil is well equipped for life in the senior ranks after his junior career, which saw him represent his province from the age of 12. He was also part of the Dolphins team that won Cricket SA’S annual Cub’s Week competition, in Stellenbosch, earlier this month.
“I enjoyed playing schools cricket and it was always a goal to make the national schools team,” he said. “When I found out that I had made the team, I was over the moon, and I think that was the best feeling I have ever had. Now all my focus is on adjusting and doing my best at Inland.”
Opening the batting on South Africa’s bowler-friendly pitches ranks among the most difficult jobs in the sport. It is a position that Pillay has embraced and he is determined to hone his skills at the top of the order.
“It is something that I enjoy – it allows me to lay a platform for the team,” he said. “Facing the new ball upfront is challenging, but once you are in you are able to play your shots. I prefer a measured approach before I really start to attack.”