‘The Power Play for Women Cricket Tournament showcases our commitment to promoting the development and impact of women’s sport in our communities. Through initiatives like this, we aim to empower young people and foster a sense of camaraderie and teamwork,’ said Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Patricia Van der Ross.
The tournament is built on the support extended by the Recreation and Parks Department to the Kleinvlei Cricket Club in 2021, with the objective of promoting women’s cricket.
Club Chairman David Poggenpoel’s dedication to cricket administration and coaching led to the establishment of the Kleinvlei Cricket Club in 2021.
The three-year-old club boasts both men’s and women’s teams, with the women’s team competing at the premier league level since last year.
The Kleinveli Cricket Club offers free membership to youth, removing the possible financial barrier to join.
This inclusive approach encourages youngsters to participate, learn about the sport, stay active, and connect with others in their community and neighbouring teams.
The tournament, held at the Kleinvlei Sports Field, not only provides a platform for women to showcase their cricketing skills, but also serves as a beacon of hope for the youth in the Kleinvlei community.
‘Amid the daily challenges of crime and unemployment, cricket offers a recreational activity that promotes teamwork and social interaction. The sport also encourages communication and co-operation,’ said Councillor Van der Ross.
Various stakeholders supported the event along with the Department and these include Sub Council 21, local councillors through ward allocated funding, the City’s Disaster Risk Management, Kleinvlei MFMC, local Neighbourhood Watch, and SAPS.
This year’s tournament saw the participation of four teams – Kleinvlei CC (Gladiators), Hanover Park Cricket Club, Curro Durbanville and Durbanville Composite (Renegades).
The following accolades were awarded:
· Best Batter: Carleigh Gallant from Kleinvlei CC scored 74 runs
· Best Fielder: Bronwyn Abrahams from Hanover Park CC took 4 catches and executed one run out
· Best Bowler: Sofia Berien from Kleinvlei CC took 4 wickets at an economy rate of 3,8 runs per over in six overs
· Best Wicket Keeper: Sasha-Lee Valentine from Kleinvlei CC had one stumping, one run out, and only conceded one bye
· Player of the Tournament: Carleigh Gallant from Kleinvlei CC, who scored 74 runs, took two wickets, and made one catch
Team Positions:
· Winners: Kleinvlei CC (Gladiators), with three wins out of three matches, earned 12 log points
· Runners-up: Durbanville Renegades, with two wins out of three matches, earning eight log points.
Sasha-Lee Valentine, 14, a resident of Kleinvlei and member of Kleinvlei Cricket Club for two years, said she enjoyed her position as wicket keeper.
‘My role is crucial in preventing the ball from going past me and conceding runs. I discovered cricket at primary school and joined the club after being scouted by my coach. My grandmother is my biggest supporter, never missing a game whether at home or away.’
Nawaal Hanslow, 29, representing Hanover Park Cricket Club, said she was initially a spectator.
‘I learned about cricket through my coach, Nizaam Adams, who is one of the best coaches. Starting as an all-rounder, I now specialise as a batswoman. I believe cricket has the power to transform youth if they put their minds to it and believe in themselves.’
The Power Play for Women Cricket Tournament has become a highlight on the local sports calendar.
