A pioneering fast bowler who played for the South African national team, known for his pace, accuracy, and impressive wicket-taking record. He was the first black player to represent South Africa in an international cricket match.
Makhaya Ntini, born on July 6, 1977, is a South African former professional cricketer who made history as the first black player to represent the South African national cricket team. With a career spanning over a decade, Ntini proved himself as a formidable fast bowler, taking 390 wickets in 101 Test matches and 266 wickets in 173 One Day Internationals (ODIs).
Ntini was born in Mdingi, a small village in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. His passion for cricket was ignited when he was discovered by a Border Cricket Board development officer, Raymond Booi, who was setting up a mini-cricket program in the area. Despite being too old and too big for the program, Booi recognized Ntini's talent and arranged for him to participate in a net session in King William's Town.
Two years after his discovery, Ntini was selected to tour England with the South Africa Under-19 squad, where he impressed with his performance. This led to his inclusion in the senior team, and he made his Test debut against Sri Lanka in 1998. Ntini's career was marked by several milestones, including becoming the third South African cricketer to take 300 Test wickets, after Shaun Pollock and Allan Donald.
Ntini was a key member of the South African team that won the 1998 ICC KnockOut Trophy, the country's first and only ICC trophy to date. He also played a crucial role in the team's success in the 2003 Cricket World Cup, where they reached the semi-finals.
In December 2017, Ntini's son, Thando Ntini, was named in South Africa's squad for the 2018 Under-19 Cricket World Cup, following in his father's footsteps. Ntini's legacy extends beyond his on-field achievements, as he paved the way for other black cricketers to represent South Africa.
Ntini has always emphasized the importance of hard work and dedication in achieving success. He has inspired countless young cricketers with his rags-to-riches story, proving that with perseverance and passion, anything is possible.
Ntini's pioneering role in South African cricket has contributed significantly to the country's cricketing landscape. He has inspired a new generation of cricketers, and his legacy continues to inspire and motivate young athletes from underprivileged backgrounds.
Makhaya Ntini's remarkable journey is a testament to his talent, dedication, and perseverance. As a pioneering figure in South African cricket, he has left an indelible mark on the sport, inspiring future generations to follow in his footsteps.
50 Years Old
A legendary all-rounder in cricket, renowned for his exceptional batting and bowling skills, earning him a spot among the greatest players of all time.
52 Years Old
A legendary all-rounder who dominated international cricket with his exceptional fast bowling and handy batting skills, earning him a place among the greatest cricketers of all time.
59 Years Old
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44 Years Old
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41 Years Old
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42 Years Old
A prolific batsman who holds multiple records in international cricket, including the fastest to reach 2,000, 3,000, 4,000, 5,000, 6,000, and 7,000 runs in One Day Internationals.
42 Years Old
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40 Years Old
A skilled fast bowler and all-rounder who took 224 wickets in 64 Tests, known for his exceptional ability to swing the ball at high speeds.
