Thando Ntini: I’m closer to achieving my dreams than you think

Western Province and Paarl Rocks cricketer Thando Ntini, gives some insight into his life as a professional cricketer in this exclusive Q&A with Nabeelah Fakier.

It’s a tired question that I’m sure you have been asked many times, but can you give our fans some insight into how being Makhaya Ntini’s son has affected your career?

“Growing up was tough being in his shadow but as I’ve grown I’ve come to terms that I’m good enough to make my own name in the sport. My parents have been a massive help in encouraging me to be myself. I’ve also worked really hard to get myself out there and put my name out there as my own person and for the cricketer that I am.”

How do you ensure that you stay motivated for success and how do you balance personal life and cricket?

“Being motivated happens automatically with opportunities like these [Mzansi Super League]. It’s hard to not be excited and motivated to be successful when you share a changing room with the world’s best players. You want to be where they are at and that’s my motivation and drive to do better and be a better cricketer.”

READ: Thando Ntini: Our team is good enough to win it this year

What are your aspirations and goals for your career?

“My goals are to obviously to play franchise cricket for the Cobras but my long term goals are to play for SA A and the big one, to play for the Proteas. I’m closer than you think and I won’t stop working hard and sacrificing until I get there.”

You’ve just completed pre-season warm-up games with Western Province, how has your journey with WP and the team been?

“My journey with Western Province has been nothing but a privilege and a dream come true. I wouldn’t be where I am today if it wasn’t for the team I play for and the union itself. They have looked after me and made me one of their own. I’m forever grateful for everything that they do for me. The team environment is one that challenges you at every training session and encourages/motivates you to get better at every practice.”

How do you rate your all-rounder abilities? Any difficulties for you with the bat?

“My all-rounder skills are getting better and better as I get to know myself as a cricketer because I’m still learning and always working hard to become better.”

Who has been the toughest batsman you’ve faced?

“I feel like all the batsmen I’ve bowled to have all taught me a lesson or two and no batsman is easy to bowl to, so I can’t really put a finger on who’s the toughest batsman I’ve bowled to.”

Have there been any setbacks and hurdles you’ve had to overcome in your career?

“Every sporting career has setbacks such as injuries, not being selected for teams etc. But I’ve had the right people by my side to help me through such rough patches and those individuals know who they are. I’m blessed to have them by my side to help me get through tough times.”

Who has been a major influencer/s in your career thus far?

“The people who have had a massive influence on my career and have gotten me this far would be my parents, coaches, mentors, physios and many more. But the support structure that I have around me enables me to play at my peak level and perform to the best of my ability.”