Maphaka debuts for DP World Lions in CSA 4-Day Competition

At just 17 years old, left-arm fast bowler Kwena Maphaka made his debut on Thursday for the DP World Lions in the CSA Division One 4-Day Competition. His pace and ability to generate movement off the pitch has caught the attention of cricket enthusiasts and selectors alike, with the Lions’ recently signed bowling coach, Proteas’ fast bowling great, Allan Donald, the latest to give the youngster his seal of approval.

The highly anticipated match against the Dafabet Warriors at St George’s Park in Gqeberha marks a significant milestone in Maphaka’s promising cricketing career, which is speeding forward like a bullet train. On day one, he claimed his first stick, dismissing Warriors’ captain Matthew Breetzke and ending with 2/87 from 18.5 overs.

Hailing from St Stithians College, Maphaka has experienced a whirlwind of success over the past year, rapidly climbing the ranks as one of South Africa’s most talented young players. Read more about him in our featured Player Profile article.

Apart from making his four-day debut for the DP World Lions, more high level cricket lies ahead for Maphaka with the Paarl Royals, who signed him to a rookie contract for the forthcoming second season of the Betway SA20 competition, which takes place from the 10th of January to the 10th of February 2024.

Before donning the Royals’ jersey, Maphaka is set to showcase his skills for the Gauteng Lions in the annual Khaya Majola Cricket Week – in a powerhouse team. The prestigious event, which takes place in Makhanda from the 16th to the 20th of December, features the best schoolboy talent in South Africa facing off in provincial competition.

Maphaka’s list of achievements is quickly accruing, and it includes a first-class debut for the SA A side in an unofficial test match against Sri Lanka A back in June, as well as turning out for the SA Emerging team in the CSA Domestic One Day Cup. No doubt, as Cricket South Africa does with its brightest talent, they are overseeing the young star’s workload.

As he continues to hone his skills and gain valuable experience, Maphaka’s journey is one that fans and pundits alike will keenly follow, with the hope that he can take the big step up to representing the Proteas.

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