Schools SA20 profile – Reabetswe Dithipe – Saints Christian School
Saints Christian School off-spinner Reabetswe Dithipe is buzzing with excitement ahead of the Schools SA20 National Finals, which starts on 13 March at the University of Pretoria, where she hopes to continue proving herself as a vital cog in coach Claudio Lucas‘s side.
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The all-rounder has established herself as a reliable batter and consistent wicket-taker, contributing 18 wickets in seven matches, while also making regular contributions with the bat since the beginning of the year.
Her knack of capturing wickets at crucial times has been on full display since the North West leg of the tournament. She continued her good run in the Central finals in January, which included a decisive 3/4 in Saints’ win over the Kuruman Hub team.
“I’m excited and ready to showcase my talent. I’m going to give my utmost best in the finals as an individual and will support and encourage my teammates to do the same,” she said.
Besides her wicket-taking contributions, Dithipe is a reliable opening batter and is known for her hard grafting at the crease and ability to absorb pressure up front to lay a solid foundation for her teammates.
The Saints’ vice-captain honed her skills playing against boys from the age of nine. That experience has undoubtedly moulded her into the tough player that she is, and it has also contributed to her growth and maturity in the game.
While her biggest takeaway thus far from the Schools SA20 is that “pressure can refine your talent”, Dithipe acknowledged that it’s going to be tough in the National Finals. She is, however, confident, knowing that she’s surrounded by teammates who can motivate her when the chips are down.
“One time, my morale was so low that it affected my performance but my teammates came through for me to such an extent that I became the player of the match,” she recalled.
It’s that camaraderie that has defined Dithipe and her teammates in the tournament. The North West u16 player hopes they will continue their good form in Pretoria.
“We always give our best. Our coaches are the best in the country,” she declared.
“For the finals, we have prepared thoroughly. We went as far as preparing ourselves emotionally and psychologically.”
Dithipe’s talent coincides with the rise of the women’s game and the youngster is eager to showcase her talent and hopefully end up donning the green and gold like her idol, Laura Wolvaardt, in the future.
When Saints challenge for the honour of being crowned the best schoolgirl T20 side in the country, cricket fans can expect Dithipe to be one of their standout performers in Pretoria, playing a leading role both bat and ball to inspire her teammates to glory.
“If we win, it will be so special because it would mean our hard work paid off and that your humble beginnings cannot stop you from reaching your goals if you don’t give up,” she said.
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