I’m very lucky to still be in South Africa as if my trip didn’t get extended by 4 more weeks, I would be sitting in school right now!
For the past few weeks, I have had the opportunity to train with the Lions women, one of the strongest domestic teams in South Africa, for 10-15 hours a week thanks to Razeena Manack being the wicketkeeper for the team. Being able to field and bowl with such a high standard and professional team has been a great addition to all the batting practice I have been doing here in the nets. I have got to meet and train with some of the Proteas women, such as Ayabonga Khaka, Shabnim Ismael and a few more. All the girls and coaches I have worked with have been so welcoming and friendly and I’ve definitely made some lifelong friends. I have especially enjoyed all the fielding, getting to throw myself around again on the stadium’s outfield.
I’m continuing to get a club match each Saturday with Randberg, which has been a great opportunity to put my work from the weekdays into match scenarios. Last weekend, I made my first 50 while opening the batting. I’m so glad I joined such a great club, from the coach to all the players, I get on very well with everyone. They held a genuine South African Braai for me a few weeks ago, which was really wonderful.
Aside from all the training I have been doing, I have also been watching a lot of cricket. The Pakistan women are currently in South Africa so I have watched a few of those games, as well as going to pink day which was really cool. I also went to Durban to watch one of Mo Manack’s four-day games so I also got to spend some time by the beach.
Off the field, I have learned a lot about Islam as currently it is the holy month, Ramadan. I have also been fasting with the Manack family from 5am to 7pm each day. The discipline and appreciation you learn from doing the fast is really interesting.
I am really loving my time here and am making the most of my last 2 weeks. Thanks again to the Manack family for making my experience here so enjoyable.