Maphaka touted as South Africa’s next bowling superstar but is he ready for Proteas callup?
Kwena Maphaka has been grabbing international sports headlines because of his amazing bowling talent.
Maphaka loves the inswinger. After his last Super Six game, the South African teenager, who’d cheekily said he hoped he was better than Jasprit Bumrah, watched the Indian quick’s unplayable yorker to Ollie Pope in the Test series in India.
He was inspired by Bumrah’s ability to swing the ball late and deceive the batsman, and wanted to replicate that in his own game.
“I love watching Jasprit Bumrah bowl. He’s got this amazing ability to swing the ball late and that’s something I try to do as well. I’ve been working on my inswinging yorkers and it’s great to see it pay off,” Maphaka said.
Maphaka’s dedication to his craft and his ability to execute his plans on the field have earned him praise from his teammates and coaches.
“He’s a very talented young bowler and has a bright future ahead of him. He’s always willing to learn and improve, and that’s a great quality to have,” said his coach, Mark Boucher.
Maphaka’s success at the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2024 has not only put him in the spotlight, but has also opened up doors for him at the senior level.
He has been selected for the South Africa A squad and is now aiming to make his mark in domestic cricket.
“I want to continue working hard and performing well at the domestic level. My ultimate goal is to represent the senior national team and play in international cricket,” Maphaka said.
With his talent and determination, it won’t be long before Maphaka achieves his goal of playing for the senior national team.
His impressive performances at the U19 World Cup have shown that he has the skills and the temperament to succeed at the highest level.
As Maphaka continues to grow and develop as a cricketer, there is no doubt that he will be a force to be reckoned with in the future.
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