From Ikageng to international dreams: Nthabiseng Nini’s journey

From the dusty streets of Ikageng to the tropical beaches of Malaysia, Nthabiseng Nini’s journey in cricket has already carried her further than she ever imagined.

At just 19 years old, she has twice worn the South African badge at the U19 Women’s World Cup — first in 2023 on home soil, and again earlier this year in Malaysia — and now dreams of pushing through to the senior Proteas side.

Nini has already carved out a leadership role at home as captain of the North West Dragons Ladies, guiding them back into Division One after a triumphant campaign in the second tier.

For her, success has always gone hand in hand with lessons. Even after South Africa’s heartbreaking nine-wicket defeat to India in the U19 final, she remains determined, grateful for the experience, and intent on using those setbacks to sharpen her game.

Her love affair with cricket began almost by accident in 2017, having grown up playing netball and participating in athletics, until a friend introduced her to the game.

“I didn’t even know there was a sport like cricket for girls when I was growing up,” Nini said.

“A friend asked me to go with her to training one day. I liked what I saw, I asked the coach if I could join, and the rest is history.”

The right-arm seam bowler has been a part of Cricket South Africa’s hubs system, and she has embraced the opportunities the program has given her. More than just a platform for skills development, the hubs became her doorway into belonging and recognition.

“Being a part of the hubs has been massive for me,” she continued.

“It’s not just about cricket development, but also about giving me a sense of belonging. Coming from a background where access to opportunities, facilities and coaching is not guaranteed, the hubs created a space where kids like me felt seen and supported.

“For many of us, the hubs were the first real introduction to cricket,” she said.

“Without them, I genuinely don’t believe I’d be where I am today.”

But while her cricketing ambitions burn brightly, Nini’s responsibilities extend far beyond the boundary rope. At just 19, she is already helping provide for her family, proof that sport can be more than a personal passion — it can change lives.

It is one of the reasons she continues to push herself, hoping that Division One cricket with the Dragons will open more doors, including an opportunity for a Proteas call-up.

“There is a senior T20 World Cup next year, and I just hope my performances can get me close to that team.

“We are in Division One now, and that gives us as a team the chance to prove ourselves.”

Her two U19 World Cups taught her just how fine the margins can be at international level. In 2023, her tournament was not straightforward, and she feared a repeat performance in Malaysia.

Instead, she emerged stronger, even winning a Player of the Match award against Samoa — a moment that brought her to tears. Nini picked up six wickets in six appearances at the recent global event, putting in solid efforts with the new ball.

“I didn’t expect that to happen,” she admitted.

“The 2023 World Cup was tough for me and I thought things would go the same way, but thankfully they didn’t.

“It showed how small the margins are at the top level.

“One or two moments can shift an entire game. India played exceptionally well, but for us it was about learning how to handle pressure. Against them, we probably didn’t adjust quickly enough to the pitch or their game plans.”

Now back home in Potchefstroom, the new-ball bowler continues to hone her skills, hungry to translate those international lessons into domestic success. And as August — Women’s Month in South Africa — shines a spotlight on female athletes, she hopes her story can inspire others.

“With this month being Women’s Month, I would like to motivate other young ladies who want to start playing the game and let them know that it will make a huge difference in their lives,” she continued.

For her, cricket has been life-changing.

“Your life can change very easily.

“As I speak to you now, I am able to provide for my family at such a young age. We also need to move on from the mentality that sport is only for men. As women, we can also achieve something and get recognition. We need to raise our hands, take our chances, and that is the only way we can grow.”