Fifteen-year-old Cambridge High School pupil Leah Jasson recently emerged as a rising indoor cricket star after an exceptional showing at the Indoor Cricket IPT, where she played a key role in securing a silver medal for her team.
The grade 9 pupil proved to be a force to be reckoned with, producing consistent all-round performances across four matches.
With the bat, Leah averaged 10.75 runs per game, while her exceptional bowling saw her concede an impressive average of just -5.25 runs.
She also claimed an average of 2.75 wickets per game, contributing a total impact of 16 runs per match, an effort that played a key role in her team’s success.
Representing the Border Junior Ladies Bears, Leah helped guide her side to a silver medal finish, a result she described as one of the proudest moments of her cricket journey.
“It was both exciting and nerve-wracking at the same time,” she said, reflecting on her first indoor cricket tournament and her first visit to Gauteng.
“Being exposed to a more intense level of cricket and interacting with players from across the country was truly exhilarating,” she said.
Her performance did not go unnoticed, as she was named Bowler of the Tournament in the Junior Ladies division.
Despite her success, Leah’s road to winning was far from easy.
She entered the tournament with a broken index finger sustained during a school practice session and later fell seriously ill during the competition.
These challenges limited her time on the field and prevented her from performing at full capacity.
Still, her determination never wavered.
“The simple fact that she still participated in the IPT while having a broken index finger shows her level of commitment and dedication,” said her coach, Daniel Kitchen.
“She is quiet in nature, but the way she goes about her work with both bat and ball speaks volumes.
“She’s not trying to outshine anyone; she just wants to do her best for the team.” Kitchen also emphasised the importance of teamwork in indoor cricket, noting that every player’s contribution is vital.
Leah’s efforts, he said, were instrumental in helping the team reach the finals.
Off the field, Leah credits her support system for keeping her motivated.
“The unwavering support of my family, friends, teachers, coaches and teammates pushes me to give my best and stay grounded,” she said.
Looking ahead, she has her sights set on expanding her cricket career into the outdoor format, with ambitions of representing Border, and ultimately SA, on a bigger stage.
With back-to-back podium finishes for her team in just two years at the IPT, and a squad filled with young talent, the future looks bright.
At just 15 years old and already making waves at provincial level, Leah is a name to watch, her journey is only just beginning.
