South Africa boasts one of the richest cricketing histories in the world, with blind cricket being played here since the 1990s. Mzantsi was the first to win the inaugural Blind Cricket World Cup in 1998, reaching the finals in 2002, and making the semi-finals in 2022.
Lions Blind Cricket aims to build on this legacy by developing the JHB T20 Tournament, which featured three clubs—JHB Society for the Blind, Bush Bucks Blind Cricket, Tshwane University of Technology, and Filadelfia Blind Special School—in a thrilling T20 competition at Riverlea Cricket Field.
City of Joburg’s MMC for Community Development, Cllr Tebogo Nkokou, expressed admiration for the participants’ dedication despite their visual impairments. “As someone deeply passionate about youth empowerment, it brings me immense joy to witness such commitment from these young athletes. I fully support you and look forward to seeing this sport reach global heights.”
Mbulelo Bezu, Acting Director of Sport and Recreation for the City of Joburg, said: “The City of Johannesburg’s Sport and Recreation Directorate, in partnership with Gauteng Cricket, successfully hosted the International Blind Cricket Series between South Africa and New Zealand in February 2024.
“Johannesburg has also hosted national T20 selection tournaments, identifying talent for international competitions like the Blind Cricket World Cup. Our involvement promotes inclusive sports, raises awareness, and encourages participation in blind cricket. By supporting blind cricket, the city fosters the sport’s development, driving its growth and creating opportunities for visually impaired individuals.”
Reuben Mandlazi, Lions Cricket’s Cricket Services Manager, said the tournament aims to raise awareness of Blind Cricket. “Blind Cricket doesn’t get much attention in sporting circles or mainstream media. Through this event—the first of its kind—we hope to change that and establish it as an annual fixture.”
The tournament’s Player of the Tournament, Siyavuya Mahlikihla from the Johannesburg Society for the Blind, was emotional after his victory.
“The competition was tough, but I’m incredibly grateful for this honour. It reflects the hard work and teamwork my teammates and I put in.”
Written by Maseipati Tsotsotso