Thando Ntini’s recent performances for SA Emerging has given him a positive boost for a successful domestic season.

For many youngsters, the weight of expectation that comes with carrying the surname of a famous sportsman often proves too much. Think Cheyenne Woods, who rose to prominence in women’s golf as the niece of Tiger, only to fade into obscurity.

Or South Africa’s Wayne Player, son of nine-time Major champion Gary who also failed to make inroads as a Tour Pro before packing it in.

For all intents and purposes, Thando Ntini, however, is very much his own man. Not least owing to his ability with the willow. His fledgeling career has followed a natural upward trajectory which suggests he’s in it for the long haul.

After playing for Border U13, Ntini participated in the Colts Academy Week for Western Province before earning his place in the SA U19 side.

Young Ntini found instant success at U19 level as he claimed 4-56 on debut. His U19 career continued to go from strength to strength as he earned a semi-pro contract with Western Province.

Although he has yet to earn a contract with the Cobras, on a national level, he has still managed selection in pre-Proteas sides.

More recently Ntini earned selection for SA Emerging. During Sri Lanka’s ongoing tour of South Africa, Ntini has acquitted himself well.

He began the tour by capturing 5-49 in nine overs in an ODI in Pretoria and although it was in a losing cause, Ntini showcased his ability to pick up wickets at key intervals throughout an innings.

Thando’s ability is not limited to white-ball cricket, though. In the second Test against Sri Lanka Emerging, Ntini ripped the heart out of the Sri Lanka line-up as three strikes in quick succession had the tourists at 128-4 in reply to South Africa’s first-innings total of 450.

Performances such as these suggest it won’t be too long before Ntini pens a full franchise contract.

Photo: Cricket South Africa/Twitter