Author: csa

The South Africa u19 Women will host their Zimbabwe counterparts in a Youth T20 Tri-Series from 9-18 January next year, which will also feature an invitational Cricket South Africa (CSA) Youth XI.

All matches will start at 13:00 and will be played at the Chatsworth Oval, in Durban, with the final scheduled for Sunday, 18 January.

The Tri-Series comes with a year to go until the ICC Women’s u19 T20 World Cup 2027, as the future stars continue their preparations with vital match practice following several training camps held throughout 2025.

The SA u19 squad is headlined by Proteas’ Women starlet and wicketkeeper-batter Karabo Meso, who is joined by, among others, Jae-Leigh Filander, Mieke van Voorst, and Ashleigh van Wyk, all of whom were part of the squad that reached the Women’s u19 T20 World Cup final earlier this year.

Meanwhile, the CSA Youth XI squad includes players from the extended SA u19 training group, with former junior Proteas also added to bolster the squad.

SA u19 Women’s head coach, Dinesha Devnarain, commented: “I’m glad that we get a series in the beginning of the year. The series is imperative. We want to test our new pool of players.

“This is the crop we have for the World Cup. How do we best suit their skills? Put them under a little bit of strain in Durban conditions with the heat, and test their strength and conditioning capacity.

“Then we can slowly start introducing the brand of cricket, the culture, the characteristics that we look for and what we can develop.

“So, this series is paramount to where we are headed for the World Cup,” the coach added.

SA u19 Women’s Convenor or Selectors, AJ Rudman, said: “Competitive cricket at this level is crucial for the growth of our u19 women. Tours like this expose the players to playing conditions, higher intensity and pressure situations, which are all key in preparing them for a World Cup environment.

“It allows us to assess how they respond against quality opposition as we build towards the 2027 u19 Women’s T20 World Cup.

“The inclusion of the CSA Youth XI is designed to create a stronger, more competitive squad that adds real value by applying pressure, sharing experience and strengthening the pipeline between the u19 and emerging levels.”

SA u19 Women Squad 

Ashley Barnard (Mpumalanga), Chris-Mari Bezuidenhout (Mpumalanga), Jae-Leigh Filander (Western Province), Miya Lalor (Western Province), Karabo Meso (Central Gauteng Lions), Anelisa Mhlongo (KZN Coastal), Ziya Mohanlall (KZN Coastal), Shelfa Mukhari (Limpopo), Shreeya Subbiah (KZN Coastal), Melissa van der Merwe (Boland), Mieke van Voorst (Eastern Storm), Ashleigh van Wyk (Eastern Storm), Cayleigh Wanckel (Eastern Province), Nobubelebesisa Zwane (KZN Coastal).

CSA Youth XI Squad

Jemma Botha (Western Province), Jezé Campher (Garden Route Badgers), Bruzaan Goosen (Eastern Storm), Simoné Lourens (Titans), Siphokuhle Masilela (Eastern Storm), Nthabiseng Nini (North West), Diara Ramlakan (Central Gauteng Lions), Puseletso Sekhute (North West), Gabriella Sequeira (Titans), Ashley Sibanda (Central Gauteng Lions), Oluhle Siyo (Western Province), Maria van der Vyfer (Boland), Diedré van Rensburg (North West), Chanel Venter (Titans).

SA u19 Women’s Youth T20 Tri-Series against Zimbabwe u19 Women and CSA Youth XI

Friday, 9 January – 1st Youth T20 – SA u19 Women vs Zimbabwe u19 (Chatsworth Oval, Durban)

Saturday, 10 January – 2nd Youth T20 – SA u19 Women vs CSA Youth XI (Chatsworth Oval, Durban)

Monday, 12 January – 3rd Youth T20 – SA u19 Women vs CSA Youth XI (Chatsworth Oval, Durban)

Tuesday, 13 January – 4th Youth T20 – CSA Youth XI vs Zimbabwe u19 (Chatsworth Oval, Durban)

Thursday, 15 January – 5th Youth T20 – SA u19 Women vs Zimbabwe u19 (Chatsworth Oval, Durban)

Friday, 16 January – 6^th Youth T20 – CSA Youth XI vs Zimbabwe u19 (Chatsworth Oval, Durban)

Sunday, 18 January – Youth T20 Tri-Series Final – TBC (Chatsworth Oval, Durban)

All matches start at 13:00.

Issued by: Cricket South Africa – Corporate Communications

A strong group of 26 players will gather in Stellenbosch on Saturday as the first South African U18 Girls squad was named for two matches against a touring side from the Netherlands later this month.

The squad was chosen at the end of the U18 Elite Player Development (EPD) camp for girls, which was held in Riebeek Kasteel this week. The two matches will take place on 12 and 16 December.

Former Springbok wing Jongi Nokwe from Western Province has been appointed as the team’s head coach, with Aneesah Adams (Maties / WP) and Lesego Malebadi (UJ / Lions) named as his assistants.

“This is a big development in our women’s programme and to see the excitement amongst the girls, and the enormous amounts of hard work they put in this week, bodes well for the future,” said Nokwe.

“We can’t wait to get stuck in with this squad and start working towards the two matches. It’s going to be tough, but everyone involved is ready for this challenge, which is also a wonderful opportunity for the players and management alike.”

The squad will be based at the Stellenbosch Academy of Sport (SAS) and the matches will be played at Paul Roos Gymnasium’s Markötter Stadium.

SA U18 Girls squad:

 Forwards: Isipho Dungelo (WP), Masizana Orie (EP), Likhona Masiza (WP), Mivuyo Pawuli (WP), Nokulinda Makhubela (Pumas), Asive Gaqa (WP), Chuma Isaac (EP), Hlekane Baloyi (Bulls), Keesha Cloete (Boland), Ambesiwe Pontshi (Border), Vuyiswa Ngwenya (Pumas), Sinelizwei Rasmeni (WP), Palesa Matee (WP), Lindokuhle Nxawe (Border).

Backs: Danica Pypers (WP), Likhona Dyani (EP), Lukhanye Lolo (EP), Nailha Jansen (SWD), Julene Hass (EP), Nodumiso Molusi (Lions), Chanice Scholtz (EP), Nadelean Leeuskieter (EP), Nuha Levy (WP), Coby Mentoor (WP), Jessie Schoeman (WP), Anitha Fazi (WP).

Issued by SA Rugby Communication

JOHANNESBURG: Cricket South Africa (CSA) has announced the South Africa u19 Men‘s squad that will represent the nation at the 16th edition of the ICC u19 Men’s Cricket World Cup.

The tournament takes place in Namibia and Zimbabwe from 15 January to 6 February 2026.

KZN Inland‘s Muhammad Bulbulia will lead the squad, having already impressed the team in recent Youth competitions.

South Africa has been drawn in Group D alongside the West Indies, Afghanistan, and Tanzania.

The Junior Proteas will be officially capped at a special ceremony on 6 January at the CSA Head Office.

Ahead of the global showpiece, the team will face India in three Youth ODIs at Willowmoore Park, Benoni, from 5-7 January 2026, under the guidance of head coach Malibongwe Maketa.

South Africa u19 Squad: ICC u19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026

JJ Basson(Lions), Daniel Bosman (Western Province), Corne Botha (Lions), Muhammad Bulbulia (KZN Inland), Paul James (Western Province), Enathi Khitshini Tembalethu (SWD), Michael Kruiskamp (Western Province), Adnaan Lagadien (Western Province), Bayanda Majola (Dolphins), Armaan Manack (Lions), Bandile Mbatha (Dolphins), Lethabo Phahlamohlaka (Titans), Jason Rowles (Lions), Ntandoyenkosi Soni (Eastern Province), Jorich van Schalkwyk (Titans).

Head coach, Maketa, commented on the readiness of the squad: “What has impressed me most is the growth these players have shown. From meeting them as 16-year-olds to seeing who they are now, it’s clear we’re developing not just cricketers, but good young men for this country.

“Cricket-wise, their understanding of the intensity required at international level has been outstanding. They’ve gone back to work with their coaches and returned with a new level of intent at every session. That’s exactly what’s needed to compete at a World Cup.

“I’m very confident in this group. Their progress, combined with the culture we’ve built based on hard work, resilience, and putting the team first, gives me real belief.

“They’ve embraced those values with hunger and quiet confidence, and that makes me excited about what we can achieve,” said Maketa.

SA u19 Convenor of Selectors, Patrick Moroney, commented: “We are pleased with the balance and depth of this squad. Every player selected has earned their place through consistent performances and a strong work ethic.

“This group has shown real maturity in pressure situations, and we believe they have the skill, temperament, and character needed to compete at the highest level of youth cricket.

“We are confident they will represent South Africa with pride and purpose.”

Management

Malibongwe Maketa (Head Coach), Blanche Conradie (Team Manager), Imraan Khan (Batting Coach), Paul Adams (Bowling Coach), Thabang Kumalo (Fielding Coach), Tumi Masekela (Strength and Conditioning Coach), Sheenagh Jordaan (Physiotherapist), Kyle Southgate (High-Performance Analyst), Dr Phumi Skosana (Team Doctor), Eugene Oppelt (Performance Psychologist), Alungile Nyakambi (Media Specialist), Lara van der Dussen (Educator), Rosey Lombard (Performance Dietitian – non-travelling).

SA u19 Men Fixtures:  ICC u19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026 (15 January – 6 February)

Friday, 16 January, Afghanistan v South Africa, HP Oval, Windhoek

Monday, 19 January, South Africa v Tanzania, HP Oval, Windhoek

Thursday, 22 January, West Indies v South Africa, HP Oval, Windhoek

Tuesday, 3 February, First semi-final, Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo

Wednesday, 4 February, Second semi-final, Harare Sports Club, Harare

Friday, 6 February, Final, Harare Sports Club, Harare

Issued by: Cricket South Africa – Corporate Communications

HARARE: A brave attempt by South Africa Under-19 (SA U19) Men was not enough as they were beaten by 33 runs against Bangladesh Under-19 in the Youth One-Day International (YODI) tri-series final in Harare on Sunday.

Chasing a target of 270, the top four all got starts to leave their side on 111 for two at one stage, before they lost their way to be dismissed for 236.

Jorich van Schalkwyk (19), Adnaan Lagadien (40), captain Muhammad Bulbulia (31) and Jason Rowles (35) were the men that kept the South Africans in the hunt during the early part of the chase, but Al Fahad (3/50) significantly got two of them in his impressive spell to ensure Bangladesh walked away with the title.

It was a nonetheless fruitful tournament for Malibongwe Maketa and his young charges, who have enjoyed some valuable game time over the last few weeks. This competition, as well as a preceding YODI series against the Bangladeshis, offered them further preparation as they build towards next year’s ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup in Zimbabwe and Namibia.

On Sunday at the Harare Sports Club, they won the toss and opted to field first with Bandile Mbatha (2/50) and Bayanda Majola’s (1/41) early strikes briefly putting them on top.

The latter removed Rifat Beg (16), while the former ran out Zawad Abrar (21) and got rid of captain Azizul Hakim (7) after a fast start to reduce Bangladesh to 65 for three.

However, it was a struggle from there after Rizan Hossan (95 off 96 balls, 10 fours) and Kalam Siddiki (65 off 76 balls, 6 fours) put on 117 runs for the fourth wicket, with MD Abdullah (38*) then providing a rapid finish.

That helped propel the junior Tigers to a 269 for five.

The South African reply began well thanks to openers Van Schalkwyk and Lagadien, two of the team’s form players over the last few weeks. They put on 59 for the first wicket, before both departing.

But co-captains Bulbulia and Rowles then picked up the baton to take their side past 100 in a sound position.

However, Rizan Hossan (5/34) got through the defences of Bulbulia and Rowles fell to Shadhin Islam (2/34) as a collapse followed.

Maketa’s side then slipped to 164 for seven, only for their fighting spirit to be reignited by Mbatha (29) and Ntando Soni (34), who strung together a stand of 59 for the eighth wicket.

That briefly gave them hope before star bowler Hossan ended it and helped his side close out the win.

SA U19 Men’s Squad – Youth ODI Tri-series against Zimbabwe U19 and Bangladesh U19

Muhammad Bulbulia (captain, KZN Inland), Jason Rowles (captain, Lions), JJ Basson (Lions), Daniel Bosman (Western Province), Dayalan Boyce (Dolphins), Paul James (Western Province), Enathi Khitshini (Garden Route Badgers), Adnaan Lagadien (Western Province), Bandile Mbatha (Dolphins), Armaan Manack (Lions), Bayanda Majola (Dolphins), Kamogelo Phiri (Lions), Vihan Pretorius (Titans), Ntando Soni (Warriors) and Jorich van Schalkwyk (Titans).

YODI Tri-series Fixtures

Friday, 25 July – 09:15
Zimbabwe U19 lost to South Africa U19 by 278 runs – Sunrise Sports Club, Harare

Saturday, 26 July – 09:15
South Africa U19 lost to Bangladesh U19 by 1 wicket – Sunrise Sports Club, Harare

Monday, 28 July – 09:15
Zimbabwe U19 lost to Bangladesh U19 by 91 runs – Harare Sports Club, Harare

Tuesday, 29 July – 09:15
Zimbabwe U19 lost to South Africa U19 by 107 runs – Harare Sports Club, Harare

Thursday, 31 July – 09:15
Bangladesh U19 lost to South Africa U19 by 5 wickets – Harare Sports Club, Harare 

Friday, 01 August – 09:15
Zimbabwe U19 lost to Bangladesh U19 by 8 wickets – Harare Sports Club, Harare

Monday, 04 August – 09:15
Zimbabwe U19 lost to South Africa U19 by 226 runs – Harare Sports Club, Harare 

Wednesday, 06 August – 09:15
South Africa U19 lost to Bangladesh U19 by 5 wickets – Harare Sports Club, Harare

Friday, 08 August – 09:15
Zimbabwe U19 lost to Bangladesh U19 by 160 runs – Harare Sports Club, Harare

Sunday, 10 August – 09:15
Bangladesh U19 beat South Africa U19 by 33 runs – Harare Sports Club, Harare

Issued by: Cricket South Africa – Corporate Communications

HARARE: Bayanda Majola claimed an impressive four-wicket haul, but it was not enough for South Africa u19 (SA u19) as they were edged out by five wickets against Bangladesh u19 in their last round-robin match of the Youth One-Day International (YODI) Tri-Series in Harare on Wednesday.

The seamer claimed four for 29 in an excellent 10 overs, with his strikes initially leaving Bangladesh in heaps of trouble chasing 148, before they recovered to chase down the target with a little over 20 overs to spare.

Earlier, it was Majola’s fast-bowling compatriot Bandile Mbatha who had to bail out his side with a top score of 39 – helping them recover from 45 for five to reach 147 all out in 37.2 overs at the Harare Sports Club.

Paul James struck 33, but the rest of the line-up faltered, with Sanjid Mozumder bagging four for 39. But after slipping into deep trouble at 68 for five early in the chase on account of Majola’s magic, Samiun Basir (52* off 36 balls, 6 fours, 3 sixes) hit an unbeaten half-century to lead the recovery and steer his side home.

The result means Bangladesh has now beaten the South Africans two out of three times in the competition to date, though the two are scheduled for one more showdown in the final on Sunday.

And Malibongwe Maketa‘s side will be determined to end well, particularly with the bat, against the Junior Tigers.

Adnaan Lagadien did the best amongst the recognised batters with 16, while Jorich van Schalkwyk (5), captain Jason Rowles (4), Kamogelo Phiri (1) and Daniel Bosman (8) were all dismissed for single figures.

Vihan Pretorius (18) helped James take the score from 45 for five to 82 for five, before the latter and Mbatha added 34 for the seventh wicket. Samiun Basir (2/23) then helped clean up the tail and SA were all out with 12.4 overs to spare.

Majola and James (1/23) ran riot early on to put their side on top by the 18th over.

However, Basir’s dashing half-century, together with MD Abdullah‘s unbeaten 20 carried their side to victory through an unbroken 80-run stand.

SA U19 Men’s Squad – Youth ODI Tri-series against Zimbabwe U19 and Bangladesh U19

Muhammad Bulbulia (captain, KZN Inland), Jason Rowles (captain, Lions), JJ Basson (Lions), Daniel Bosman (Western Province), Dayalan Boyce (Dolphins), Paul James (Western Province), Enathi Khitshini (Garden Route Badgers), Adnaan Lagadien (Western Province), Bandile Mbatha (Dolphins), Armaan Manack (Lions), Bayanda Majola (Dolphins), Kamogelo Phiri (Lions), Vihan Pretorius (Titans), Ntando Soni (Warriors) and Jorich van Schalkwyk (Titans).

YODI Tri-series Fixtures

Friday, 25 July – 09:15
Zimbabwe U19 lost to South Africa U19 by 278 runs – Sunrise Sports Club, Harare

Saturday, 26 July – 09:15
South Africa U19 lost to Bangladesh U19 by 1 wicket – Sunrise Sports Club, Harare

Monday, 28 July – 09:15
Zimbabwe U19 lost to Bangladesh U19 by 91 runs – Harare Sports Club, Harare

Tuesday, 29 July – 09:15
Zimbabwe U19 lost to South Africa U19 by 107 runs – Harare Sports Club, Harare

Thursday, 31 July – 09:15
Bangladesh U19 lost to South Africa U19 by 5 wickets – Harare Sports Club, Harare

Friday, 01 August – 09:15
Zimbabwe U19 lost to Bangladesh U19 by 8 wickets – Harare Sports Club, Harare

Monday, 04 August – 09:15
Zimbabwe U19 lost to South Africa U19 by 226 runs – Harare Sports Club, Harare

Wednesday, 06 August – 09:15
South Africa U19 lost to Bangladesh U19 by 5 wickets – Harare Sports Club, Harare

Friday, 08 August – 09:15
Zimbabwe U19 vs Bangladesh U19 – Harare Sports Club, Harare

Sunday, 10 August – 09:15
Number 1 vs Number 2 – Harare Sports Club, Harare

Issued by: Cricket South Africa – Corporate Communications

JOHANNESBURG: Cricket South Africa (CSA) hosted its annual CSA Pathway Awards on Thursday morning at Emperors Palace, celebrating the stars of tomorrow under the theme “Celebrating Greatness.”

The morning ceremony recognised outstanding performers across grassroots and senior amateur levels, with 25 trophies handed out to honour the achievements of players, coaches, administrators, and volunteers who made remarkable contributions during the past season.

At the heart of grassroots development, the KFC Mini-Cricket programme continues to serve as the foundation for future Proteas.

This year’s KFC Mini-Cricket Coach of the Year award was jointly presented to Makgokolotso Moremoholo (Free State) and Ntombikayise Patience Xongo (Kei).

Ofentse Ranoto (Titans) and Bongani Gwamanda (KZN Inland) were honoured as KFC Mini-Cricket Coordinators of the Year, while the KFC Bucket Loads of Good Award went to Mpumalanga’s Phillipine Setlau for her impactful community work through cricket.

In the age-group category, Central Gauteng Lions’ Jason Rowles was rewarded for his all-round efforts with the CSA U19 Men’s Player of the Year award, while Titans’ Janicke Janse van Rensburg was named the SA U19 Girls Player of the Tournament.

The inaugural Schools SA20 recognised emerging talent in the shortest format, with James Robb-Quinlan of Bishops Diocesan College named the Boys Player of the Tournament and Karabo Meso of Steyn City School the Girls Player of the Tournament.

North West all-rounder SW Kemp scooped the Student of the Year accolade, while fellow all-rounders Fay Cowling (DP World Lions) and Dian Forrester (Knights) were recognised as the Women’s and Men’s Newcomer of the Season in their respective categories.

CSA also celebrated achievements from its ancillary cricket programmes. Kamagelo Paul Matlala (Elandspark School) was recognised as the Learners with Special Education Needs Player of the Tournament. Sebastian Govender was named Intellectually Impaired Cricket Player of the Year, Buhle Bidla received the Blind Cricket Player of the Year award, and Heinrich Badenhorst was honoured as Deaf Cricket Player of the Year.

In the operational categories, Bryan Bloy of SuperSport Park was awarded Groundsman of the Year, while the Central Gauteng Lions Scorers Association earned the title of Scorers Association of the Year.

“The CSA Pathway Awards play an important role in acknowledging the hard work being done at every level of our development pipeline. From players to coaches, scorers and volunteers, these awards reflect the strength and commitment that continue to shape the future of cricket in South Africa.

“Congratulations to all the winners. Your performances and contributions have been outstanding, and we hope this recognition inspires you to keep striving for excellence both on and off the field.”, said Edward Khoza, CSA Executive: Domestic Cricket

Issued by: Cricket South Africa – Corporate Communications

HARARE: A dashing century by Muhammad Bulbulia helped power South Africa Under-19 (SA U19) Men to a second win in three games in their Youth One-Day International (YODI) tri-series – the latest victory by 107 runs coming against hosts Zimbabwe in Harare on Tuesday.

The captain played a key role by powering 130 off 93 balls (11 fours, 1 six) as the tourists amassed 346 for nine after they lost the toss and were put in to bat first.

The in-form Jorich van Schalkwyk (63 off 62 balls, 6 fours) was again amongst the runs with another half-century, while Adnaan Lagadien plundered 58 off 36 balls (12 fours).

Then in reply, Enathi Khitshini claimed three for 34 as the home side were restricted to 239 for nine.

It was just the response South Africa were looking for after they were narrowly edged out by the other team in the competition, Bangladesh, by one wicket on Saturday.

They flew out of the blocks thanks to openers Lagadien and Van Schalkwyk, who broke the international record for the highest individual score (215) against the same opponents last Friday and also breached the highest score by a South African U19 player (164*) in the game prior against Bangladesh.

Their stand for the first wicket yielded 103 in 13.1 overs, before 43 between the latter and Bulbulia.

The skipper then played a central role, though the only other to cross 20 was co-captain Jason Rowles (24).

Nonetheless, the visitors managed to set a strong target of 347.

The Zimbabweans made a good start of their own to the reply with Nathaniel Hlabangana (47) and Leeroy Chiwaula (17) putting on 60 for the first wicket.

But Khitshini, on as first change, eventually made the breakthrough by trapping the former leg before wicket.

Five runs later he got rid of Chiwaula, with Rowles (2/32) accounting for two more batters before the 100 was raised as the home side wobbled.

The two wicket-takers then combined to remove Brandon Senzere (6), caught by Rowles off Khitshini leaving the total on 107 for five.

Michael Blignaut led a recovery with 50 off 62 balls (6 fours, 2 sixes), though his dismissal by JJ Basson (2/57) ended all hopes for the Zimbabweans.

Captain Simbarashe Mudzengerere did manage a battling 46, but by then the game was done. He fell to Van Schalkwyk (2/30) as South Africa sealed a big win.

SA U19 Men’s Squad – Youth ODI Tri-series against Zimbabwe U19 and Bangladesh U19

Muhammad Bulbulia (captain, KZN Inland), Jason Rowles (captain, Lions), JJ Basson (Lions), Daniel Bosman (Western Province), Dayalan Boyce (Dolphins), Paul James (Western Province), Enathi Khitshini (Garden Route Badgers), Adnaan Lagadien (Western Province), Bandile Mbatha (Dolphins), Armaan Manack (Lions), Bayanda Majola (Dolphins), Kamogelo Phiri (Lions), Vihan Pretorius (Titans), Ntando Soni (Warriors) and Jorich van Schalkwyk (Titans).

YODI Tri-series Fixtures

Friday, 25 July – 09:15
Zimbabwe U19 lost to South Africa U19 by 278 runs – Sunrise Sports Club, Harare

Saturday, 26 July – 09:15
South Africa U19 lost to Bangladesh U19 by 1 wicket – Sunrise Sports Club, Harare

Monday, 28 July – 09:15
Zimbabwe U19 lost to Bangladesh U19 by 91 runs – Harare Sports Club, Harare

Tuesday, 29 July – 09:15
Zimbabwe U19 lost to South Africa U19 by 107 runs – Harare Sports Club, Harare

Thursday, 31 July – 09:15
Bangladesh U19 vs South Africa U19 – Harare Sports Club, Harare

Friday, 01 August – 09:15
Zimbabwe U19 vs Bangladesh U19 – Harare Sports Club, Harare

Monday, 04 August – 09:15
Zimbabwe U19 vs South Africa U19 – Harare Sports Club, Harare

Wednesday, 06 August – 09:15
South Africa U19 vs Bangladesh U19 – Harare Sports Club, Harare

Friday, 08 August – 09:15
mbabwe U19 vs Bangladesh U19 – Harare Sports Club, Harare

Sunday, 10 August – 09:15
Number 1 vs Number 2 – Harare Sports Club, Harare

Issued by: Cricket South Africa – Corporate Communications

HARARE: JJ Basson claimed four wickets before Bangladesh Under-19 Men clawed their way back to edge out their South Africa counterparts and clinch a low-scoring nail-biter by one wicket in the second match of their Youth One-Day International (YODI) tri-series in Harare on Saturday.

After the SA U19s were bundled out for 128, the fast bowler took four for 33 in 10 overs as Bangladesh reached their target with nine wickets down – and all thanks to their key batter Samiun Basir’s unbeaten 45.

It was an incredible finish to the game, which ebbed and flowed from one side to the other with the South Africans narrowly missing out.

It means that Malibongwe Maketa’s side have now won one and lost one of their opening two games after their record-breaking 278-run win over hosts Zimbabwe in the competition opener on Friday.

In this latest outing, the SA U19s won the toss and batted, though they struggled to make any major impact and were all out in 34.4 overs at the Sunrise Sports Club.

They lost openers Adnaan Lagadien (7), together with the in-form Jorich Van Schalkwyk (10) as well as co-captains Jason Rowles (4) and Muhammad Bulbulia (13) inside the opening 8.4 overs to slip to 43 for four.

Paul James (26) and Armaan Manack (28) worked hard to rebuild and initially did so successfully. The pair strung together a partnership of 53 for the next wicket, allowing their side to recover to 95 for four in the 22nd over.

But both fell within the space of seven deliveries, and despite a valiant 24* from Daniel Bosman, South Africa were bowled out with 15.2 overs of their innings still remaining.

Al Fahad finished as the pick of the bowlers for Bangladesh with four for 32.

Then in reply, the junior Tigers raced out of the blocks, progressing to 21 for none after only nine balls. But Bayanda Majola (3/35) started an extraordinary slide by removing opener Zawad Abrar for 20.

Basson got rid of captain Azizul Hakim and Rifat Beg (both for 5), while Majola cleaned up Rizan Hossan (2).

At that stage Bangladesh were 35 for four. Things got worse for them when Farid Hasan (8) was given out for obstructing the field and MD Abdullah (14) was subsequently bowled by Basson.

That brought Basir to the middle and he then shepherded the tail by looking after his end. He put on 31 with Fahad and then scored all 20 runs in a last wicket partnership with Shadhin Islam (0*) sealing a memorable win.

SA U19 Men’s Squad – Youth ODI Tri-series against Zimbabwe U19 and Bangladesh U19

Muhammad Bulbulia (captain, KZN Inland), Jason Rowles (captain, Lions), JJ Basson (Lions), Daniel Bosman (Western Province), Dayalan Boyce (Dolphins), Paul James (Western Province), Enathi Khitshini (Garden Route Badgers), Adnaan Lagadien (Western Province), Bandile Mbatha (Dolphins), Armaan Manack (Lions), Bayanda Majola (Dolphins), Kamogelo Phiri (Lions), Vihan Pretorius (Titans), Ntando Soni (Warriors) and Jorich van Schalkwyk (Titans).

YODI Tri-series Fixtures

Friday, 25 July – 09:15 

Zimbabwe U19 lost to South Africa U19 by 278 runs – Sunrise Sports Club, Harare

Saturday, 26 July – 09:15

South Africa U19 lost to Bangladesh U19 by 1 wicket – Sunrise Sports Club, Harare

Monday, 28 July – 09:15 

Zimbabwe U19 vs Bangladesh U19 – Harare Sports Club, Harare

Tuesday, 29 July – 09:15

Zimbabwe U19 vs South Africa U19 – Harare Sports Club, Harare

Thursday, 31 July – 09:15 

Bangladesh U19 vs South Africa U19 – Harare Sports Club, Harare

Friday, 01 August – 09:15 

Zimbabwe U19 vs Bangladesh U19 – Harare Sports Club, Harare

Monday, 04 August – 09:15 

Zimbabwe U19 vs South Africa U19 – Harare Sports Club, Harare

Wednesday, 06 August – 09:15

South Africa U19 vs Bangladesh U19 – Harare Sports Club, Harare

Friday, 08 August – 09:15

Zimbabwe U19 vs Bangladesh U19 – Harare Sports Club, Harare

Sunday, 10 August – 09:15 

Number 1 vs Number 2 – Harare Sports Club, Harare

Issued by: Cricket South Africa – Corporate Communications

HARARE: Jorich van Schalkwyk became the first batter in Youth One-Day International  (YODI) history to score a double century as South Africa Under-19 (SA U19) Men began their tri-series with a thumping 278-run win over hosts Zimbabwe in Harare on Friday.

The right-hander, who set the national record for the highest individual score in Benoni on Tuesday when he scored an unbeaten 164 against Bangladesh, went one better to smash the international record of 191 held by Sri Lanka’s Hasitha Boyagoda against Kenya in 2018.

The 18-year-old scored an incredible 215 off 153 balls (19 fours, 6 sixes) to help his side amass 385, another record beating their previous highest-score total of 359 for six against Namibia in Brisbane back in 2012.

Enathi Khitshini then claimed four wickets and Bayanda Majola took three as the hosts were blown away for 107. The margin of victory was also a record, beating the 209-run triumph from that same game in Australia.

It was a fine performance by the South Africans and gave them a major confidence-boosting start to the series at Sunrise Sports Club, which also involves Bangladesh.

They won the toss and batted first with Van Schalkwyk at the heart of everything for almost the entire innings – he was only out in the 47th over.

He shared in a 178-run third-wicket partnership with co-captain Jason Rowles (76 off 79 balls, 6 fours) and then put on 105 with Paul James (41) for the next wicket.

Even though the junior side got close to 400, there was one stand out performer with the ball – Tatenda Chimugoro returned figures of six for 62 to leave the tourists all out with one ball to spare.

But the Zimbabwean innings lasted only 24.3 overs. During that time, Nathaniel Hlabangana (31) and Kupakwashe Muradzi (40) scored nearly half the runs with a 53-run opening partnership.

However, once that was snapped by Ntando Soni (1/29) it was one-way traffic for the hosts. No other batter got to double figures as extras (11) was third-best scorer and Zimbabwe faded badly.

Khitshini, Majola and Dayalan Boyce (2/18) were all outstanding, sealing a big win and strong start to the series.

SA U19 Men’s Squad – Youth ODI Tri-series against Zimbabwe U19 and Bangladesh U19

Muhammad Bulbulia (captain, KZN Inland), Jason Rowles (captain, Lions), JJ Basson (Lions), Daniel Bosman (Western Province), Dayalan Boyce (Dolphins), Paul James (Western Province), Enathi Khitshini (Garden Route Badgers), Adnaan Lagadien (Western Province), Bandile Mbatha (Dolphins), Armaan Manack (Lions), Bayanda Majola (Dolphins), Kamogelo Phiri (Lions), Vihan Pretorius (Titans), Ntando Soni (Warriors) and Jorich van Schalkwyk (Titans).

YODI Tri-series Fixtures

Friday, 25 July – 09:15 

Zimbabwe U19 lost to South Africa U19 by 278 runs – Sunrise Sports Club, Harare

Saturday, 26 July – 09:15

South Africa U19 vs Bangladesh U19 – Sunrise Sports Club, Harare

Monday, 28 July – 09:15 

Zimbabwe U19 vs Bangladesh U19 – Harare Sports Club, Harare

Tuesday, 29 July – 09:15

Zimbabwe U19 vs South Africa U19 – Harare Sports Club, Harare

Thursday, 31 July – 09:15 

Bangladesh U19 vs South Africa U19 – Harare Sports Club, Harare

Friday, 01 August – 09:15 

Zimbabwe U19 vs Bangladesh U19 – Harare Sports Club, Harare

Monday, 04 August – 09:15 

Zimbabwe U19 vs South Africa U19 – Harare Sports Club, Harare

Wednesday, 06 August – 09:15

South Africa U19 vs Bangladesh U19 – Harare Sports Club, Harare

Friday, 08 August – 09:15

Zimbabwe U19 vs Bangladesh U19 – Harare Sports Club, Harare

Sunday, 10 August – 09:15 

Number 1 vs Number 2 – Harare Sports Club, Harare

Issued by: Cricket South Africa – Corporate Communications

Opener Jorich van Schalkwyk broke the record for the highest-ever individual score by a South Africa u19 player with his unbeaten 164, helping secure victory in the final game of their three-match Youth One-Day International (YODI) Series against Bangladesh in Benoni on Tuesday.

The right-hander carried his bat in an electrifying 156-ball innings, which included 14 fours and four sixes, to almost single-handedly lift the hosts to a 14-run consolation win on the DLS Method after bad light brought a premature end to the contest at Willowmoore Park.

Van Schalkwyk’s exploits broke a record that had stood for 25 years as he toppled former Proteas batter Jacques Rudolph‘s 156* against Nepal in 2000.

The result also meant that the SA U19s at least managed to avoid a third straight loss and end the series strongly, despite going down 2-1 overall.

Victory in the third YODI was built around Van Schalkwyk, but there were good performances too from co-captain Muhammad Bulbulia after he recorded another half-century – his 62 off 67 balls (5 fours) forging a telling 181-run second wicket partnership with the centurion.

Then with the ball, Ntando Soni returned a Player of the Match six-wicket haul, though the tourists still managed to set an imposing 320 for nine, the highest score of the series to date.

Bangladesh, big winners in the opening two games that secured for them the series, won the toss and batted first, the third time they had done so in as many games.

Their top three were pivotal to the big total with half-centuries for Zawad Abrar (68 off 58 balls, 6 fours, 5 sixes), Rifat Beg (86 off 107 balls, 7 fours, 2 sixes) and Kalam Siddiki Aleen (85 off 78 balls, 12 fours, 1 six).

Barring Soni’s six for 65 in 10 overs, almost all the other bowlers struggled, leaving the home batters with a big task on their hands.

And their problems deepened with the early loss of Adnaan Lagadien for only 10 in the third over.

But that brought in skipper Bulbulia, and together with Van Schalkwyk, the pair rebuilt excellently, not just with a rapid scoring rate, but by also keeping their wickets intact.

The stand eventually came to an end in the 32nd over, leaving the score on 201 for two and SA needing 121.

Jason Rowles, the other man with leadership responsibility for the home side, was next to go three overs later for five, opening the door further for the Bangladeshis.

But all hope was then firmly shut out thanks to Vihan Pretorius (18*) and Van Schalkwyk, who ensured there was no further damage as they paired together to add an unbroken 62 for the next wicket when the weather intervened.

With the South Africans ahead on DLS, that was enough to earn them the win after the inclement weather meant the match was halted with a little over five overs still to go and the home side ending on 277 for three.

That helped them finish the series on a high. Both teams will travel to Zimbabwe tomorrow for a YODI tri-series starting on Friday, 25 July at the Sunrise Sports Club in Harare.

SA U19 Men’s Squad – Youth ODI series against Bangladesh U19

Muhammad Bulbulia (captain, KZN Inland), Jason Rowles (captain, Lions), JJ Basson (Lions), Corne Botha (Lions), Daniel Bosman (Western Province), Paul James (Western Province), Enathi Khitshini (Garden Route Badgers), Adnaan Lagadien (Western Province), Bandile Mbatha (Dolphins), Armaan Manack (Lions), Bayanda Majola (Dolphins), Kamogelo Phiri (Lions), Vihan Pretorius (Titans), Ntando Soni (Warriors) and Jorich van Schalkwyk (Titans).

Management

Malibongwe Maketa (Head Coach), Blanche Conradie (Manager), Imraan Khan (Batting Coach), Paul Adams (Bowling Coach), Thabang Kumalo (Fielding Coach), Tumi Masekela (Strength and Conditioning Coach), Sheenagh Jordaan (Physiotherapist), Kyle Southgate (Team Analyst), Eugene Oppelt (Performance Psychologist) and Lita Gqirana (Media Manager).

Fixtures

1st YODI – Thursday, 17 July at 09:30

South Africa U19 lost to Bangladesh U19 by 130 runs – Willowmoore Park, Benoni

2nd YODI – Saturday, 19 July at 09:30

South Africa U19 lost to Bangladesh U19 by 104 runs – Willowmoore Park, Benoni

3rd YODI – Tuesday, 22 July at 09:30

South Africa U19 beat Bangladesh U19 by 14 runs (DLS Method) – Willowmoore Park, Benoni

Issued by: Cricket South Africa – Corporate Communications