The Border U16 indoor cricket team has engraved their names into the national spotlight after clinching gold at the Indoor Cricket Inter-Provincial Tournament (IPT) held in Johannesburg recently.
In a tournament defined by intensity and high-level competition, the young Border side rose above the rest, displaying remarkable resilience, teamwork, and composure to be crowned the best U16 indoor cricket team in SA.
Coach Martin Minnie speaking to the Go! on Monday credited the team’s success to their mindset and discipline.
“The grit and determination, self-belief, and trust in the process were key. The boys executed the plans we set out,” Minnie said.
Preparation played a crucial role, despite players balancing school commitments and exams.
“It was about understanding each situation, planning every section of the game, and being able to adapt to challenges,” he said.
The final proved to be a moment of history, as Border successfully chased down a massive total against Western Province, a feat believed to be among the highest successful run chases in a U16 IPT final.
“The composure, belief, and execution of the plan got us over the line,” Minnie said.
For player Ahren Somaroo, the victory was the result of collective effort and unwavering determination.
“It feels amazing. We’re really proud of the hard work and dedication we put in.
“We worked towards this goal together and gave it everything,” Somaroo said.
He highlighted a crucial must-win clash against Eastern Province as one of the toughest challenges.
“There was a bit of pressure, but we pushed through as a team,” he said.
The winning moment remains imprinted in memory.
“When Liam Chettiar blocked the last ball in the final, that’s when it really hit us, we had won.
“We all celebrated together. It was such a special moment.”
Reflecting on the road to championship, Somaroo emphasised the life lessons gained.
“I’ve learned to stay humble, respect others, and enjoy every moment.
“The support from our coach, families, and other Border teams motivated us a lot.”
From a parent’s perspective, Nicole Somaroo described the moment as deeply emotional and rewarding.
“You feel every high and every low with them,” she said.
“Watching my son grow, not just as a player but as a person, has been incredible. The passion, commitment, and love for the game really stood out.”
Nicole said the team’s achievement goes far beyond the gold medal.
“It’s about the unity, hard work, and heart they showed.
“They played for each other, and that’s what makes this so meaningful.”
Behind the success, she acknowledged the sacrifices made by both players and families.
“There were late practices, balancing school and sport, and a lot of commitment. But seeing them reach this level makes it all worth it.
“Indoor cricket teaches discipline, teamwork, resilience, and respect. It gives young people confidence and a positive space to grow.”
The victory marks an extraordinary turnaround for the Border U16 team, who finished sixth at last year’s IPT.
Their rise to national champions highlights the strength of development in the province.
Border’s success extended across multiple age groups, with the U10 team also securing gold, the junior ladies U17 earning silver, and the U14 Bears claiming bronze. Impressively, every Border team was in contention for a medal, a testament to the province’s growing strength in indoor cricket.
“This puts Border Indoor Cricket on the map in a big way,” Minnie said. “We hope to see even more young players joining the sport as we build towards the next IPT in George.”
