North West Cricket Annual Awards 2024/2025: Celebrating Cricket Excellence in Potchefstroom

North West Cricket Annual Awards 2024/2025: Celebrating Excellence, Passion, and Cricketing Spirit in Potchefstroom

The Snowflake Building in Potchefstroom turned into a hub of celebration, pride, and cricketing passion on a memorable night as North West Cricket hosted its much-anticipated Annual Awards 2024/2025. The evening was a glittering tribute to the talent, dedication, and hard work of players, coaches, umpires, and volunteers who contributed to cricket’s growth in the region.

While trophies were handed out and cheers filled the air, the heart of the event was not just about numbers or statistics it was about honouring the spirit of cricket in North West Province and recognising the individuals who keep the game alive at every level.

A Night of Cricketing Celebration in Potchefstroom

The evening was kick-started by the warm and energetic host, Itumeleng Banda, who welcomed the many dignitaries, players, coaches, sponsors, and supporters. The room was electric with anticipation as highlight reels of the season’s best moments reminded everyone why cricket is more than just a sport it's a passion shared by many across generations.

Youth cricket was in sharp focus early in the evening, reminding everyone that the future of North West Cricket is in safe hands. Talented youngsters like Nthabiseng Nini, Thato Kotokoane, and Omphile Rangwaga were recognised for their incredible performances in the NWC Hubs Program. These rising stars were joined by other standout performers in mini cricket, age-group cricket, and schools cricket.

Honouring Schools and Clubs: The Foundation of North West Cricket

The North West Cricket Annual Awards 2024/2025 wasn't just about the stars of today it was about recognising the roots of cricket: schools and clubs.

Schools like Hoerskool Volksschool, Saints Christian School, and teams like DJCA Blue and Saints/Potch Dorp shone bright for their victories in junior leagues. Meanwhile, the title of NW Youth Cricket Coach of the Year went to Claude April, whose passion for developing young talent was widely applauded.

Scorers and umpires often the unsung heroes of the game were given their deserved limelight. Tumelo Dikudu was named Scorer of the Year, and Nadia Strydom was crowned Umpire of the Year.

Club Cricket Excellence Lights Up the Night

As the night progressed, the competitive spirit of club cricket in the region took centre stage. Rustenburg I, Impala CC, Klerksdorp Travellers Ladies, NWU I, and many other clubs celebrated their triumphs across multiple league formats. Players like Brady Barends, Sonja Siepker, and Alyssa Erxleben were recognised for their outstanding contributions in both the men's and women’s competitions.

The prestigious Club Fair Play Award went to Mafikeng Boys I, a fitting reminder that cricket is not just about winning it’s about playing the game in the right spirit.

Spotlight on Women's Cricket: Breaking Boundaries, Creating Legends

The growth of women’s cricket in North West was one of the standout themes of the evening. Women cricketers like Alyssa Erxleben, Ane Saunderson, Kamogelo Kgaswane, and Reabetswe Dithipe picked up multiple awards for their consistent performances in both T20 and 50-over formats.

From best batters and bowlers to players of the year, these awards were a testament to the rising talent and increasing competitiveness in the women’s game across the province.

North West Dragons Shine on the Professional Stage

The professional arm of North West Cricket the Dragons Men and Women were celebrated for their excellence across domestic competitions.

Wihan Lubbe emerged as the standout performer for the Dragons Men, winning both T20 Player of the Year and the overall Dragons Player of the Year awards. His leadership and consistency across formats were key highlights of the season.

For the Dragons Women, Deidre van Rensburg stole the show with her powerful performances in the One Day format, while young stars like Ane Saunderson and Alyssa Erxleben showcased their bowling prowess.

Recognising National Achievements and Special Contributions

The evening took an emotional turn with the presentation of Lifetime Achievement Awards a tribute to those who dedicated more than two decades to the growth of cricket in the region. Legends like Pule Tsoanyane, Klaas Wyma, and Christo Gouws were among the honorees, a moving reminder that cricket thrives on the commitment of its community heroes.

North West Cricket also celebrated its national stars, with Marco Jansen, Gideon Peters, and Meeka-Eel Prince among those recognised for their Proteas call-ups. The SA20 selections were another proud moment for the region, with players like Wihan Lubbe, Caleb Seleka, and Migael Pretorius representing the province on one of cricket’s biggest stages.

A Proud Closing to an Inspiring Night

As the formal proceedings drew to a close, Mr Zubayr Minty, President of North West Cricket, delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks, recognising every award winner, coach, volunteer, sponsor, and supporter for their invaluable contribution to the game.

The North West Cricket Annual Awards 2024/2025 wasn’t just an awards ceremony it was a celebration of community, passion, and a shared love for cricket. It served as a powerful reminder that behind every trophy and every run scored, there are stories of dedication, perseverance, and dreams coming true.