Kgomotso ‘Busta’ Rapoo: The Spirited Leader Steering Lions’ Hollywoodbets Pro Series Campaign

Kgomotso ‘Busta’ Rapoo: The Spirited Leader Steering Lions’ Hollywoodbets Pro Series Campaign

A Rising Star Leading with Passion

JOHANNESBURG – In the heart of South African domestic cricket, one name continues to stand out: Kgomotso ‘Busta’ Rapoo. The 22-year-old DP World Lions captain has been a key figure in the team’s Hollywoodbets Pro Series campaign, demonstrating an exceptional mix of leadership and skill. As a leg spinner and a dedicated leader, Rapoo’s performances have propelled her side to the upper echelons of domestic cricket.

Having taken 21 wickets in 14 matches during the 2024/25 season across both the Hollywoodbets Pro 50 and Pro 20 competitions, Rapoo has reinforced her status as one of the most promising cricketers in South Africa. Her relentless pursuit of excellence, combined with her commitment to team success, has made her an invaluable asset to the Lions’ setup.

From Soweto to Cricketing Glory

Born on May 16, 2002, and raised in Soweto, Rapoo’s journey has been nothing short of inspirational. Growing up alongside her siblings under the care of a single mother, she credits her upbringing for instilling resilience and determination. Her passion for sports was evident from an early age, with her initial interests lying in football, drama, and dance before cricket captured her heart.

“Growing up was tough, but my mother made it easier by supporting every activity I wanted to be part of,” Rapoo recalls. “The nickname ‘Busta’ came from a school friend who thought I was always making people laugh.”

Her introduction to cricket came through her Grade R teacher at Molalatladi Primary School, but it wasn’t until she joined the Soweto Cricket Club that her raw talent began to flourish. Encouraged by her coaches, Rapoo participated in a KFC Mini-Cricket and Proteas tournament, where she won the Player of the Tournament award. That was the defining moment when she decided to pursue cricket seriously.

Climbing the Ranks to Provincial Success

Rapoo’s rapid rise through the Lions’ development system saw her make her senior provincial debut in the 2019/20 season. Under the mentorship of cricketing figures like Mr. Vezi Phetheni and Coach Tholang Hlalele, she honed her skills and became a formidable spinner in the domestic circuit.

Since then, she has featured in over 80 matches for the Lions, amassing 91 wickets across both formats. Her consistency, coupled with an innate ability to read the game, earned her the Lions’ captaincy in September 2023, making her one of the youngest leaders in the domestic game at just 21 years old.

“When I was appointed as captain, my goal was to inspire my team to believe in themselves and build a strong vision for the future,” Rapoo said. “Leadership is about learning from those around you, and I am fortunate to share this journey with experienced players who guide and support me.”

The Hollywoodbets Pro Series Challenge

The 2024/25 Hollywoodbets Pro Series has seen Rapoo emerge as one of the top wicket-takers in the league. With just two matches remaining, the Lions find themselves in a strong position, sitting second on the log as they chase silverware in the Pro 50 competition.

“My approach has always been to keep things simple,” she explains. “Respecting every player on the field allows me to enjoy the game and stay focused on the task at hand.”

With last season also seeing the Lions finish as runners-up, Rapoo and her team are determined to go one step further this year. The young captain understands the weight of expectations but remains optimistic about their title prospects.

“Being second on the log is both scary and exciting. We were in this position last season, and it pushes us even harder to finish strong. We are learning from our past experiences, and with only two matches left, we are giving everything to bring home the trophy.”

The Future of South African Women’s Cricket

Rapoo’s leadership and performances have solidified her as a key figure in South African women’s cricket. With continued development and exposure, she could soon find herself representing the national team, following in the footsteps of legendary Proteas players.

Her journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring young cricketers, especially in underrepresented communities. Through her dedication and success, she is not just leading the Lions she is shaping the future of women’s cricket in South Africa.