Not all players had access to structured school tournaments, but they still found ways to grow in the sport. Proteas Women’s wicketkeeper-batter Sinalo Jafta shared her experience of playing in provincial weeks instead.

"Growing up, we didn’t have schools’ cricket, but I was fortunate to participate in provincial weeks, which took place every December. These tournaments provided a platform for young players like myself to showcase our talents alongside future stars like Annecke Bosch, Ayabonga Khaka, and Zintle Mali, who now represents the Springbok women's sevens and 15s teams. We were encouraged to play without pressure and simply enjoy the experience. Those provincial weeks were instrumental in shaping my early cricket career, and provided valuable lessons that have stayed with me to this day."

Proteas all-rounder Wiaan Mulder echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing how school tournaments helped him deal with pressure and develop leadership skills.

"Participating in schools' T20 weeks was an invaluable experience that taught me how to manage pressure and anxiety in a team environment. It also showed me the importance of treating people with respect and creating a positive team culture."

Prestigious prize for the winning teams

The tournament is about more than just competition, it's also a celebration of young talent. The winning teams will be awarded special handmade trophies designed by Gqeberha-based sculptor Sarah Walmsley. Aside from the trophy, the champions will receive a bursary from SA20 and SACA, facilities upgrades from Cricket South Africa, and a sports gear voucher from Sedgars Sport.

The first round of matches begins at 14h00 today, with some thrilling encounters lined up:

Northwood School (Durban) vs. St Andrews School (Bloemfontein)

St David’s Marist Inanda (Johannesburg) vs. CSA Hub XI

Graeme College (Grahamstown) vs. Hoërskool Garsfontein (Pretoria)

Fans can catch all the action live on SuperSport Schools app, DStv Channel 216, and SABC Plus. The girls' final on March 15 will also be broadcast on DStv Channel 209.

Format

Boys Teams

POOL A: Northwood School (KwaZulu-Natal), St Andrew’s School Bloemfontein (Central), Hoërskool Garsfontein (Gauteng North), Graeme College (Focus School).

POOL B: Pearson High School (Eastern Cape), Bishops Diocesan College (Western Cape), St David's Marist Inanda (Gauteng South), CSA Hubs Invitational XI.

Girls Teams

POOL A: Dr JL Dube High School (KwaZulu-Natal), Saints Christian School (Central), Nkowankowa Hub (Gauteng North).

POOL B: Nomandi Junior Secondary School (Eastern Cape), Victoria Hub (Western Cape), Steyn City School (Gauteng South).

IOL Sport

sa20schoolscricket

Proteas stars share their schools cricket experiences before SA20 national finals