The 2024/25 North West Cricket Awards night was more than just a glittering event—it was a heartfelt celebration of growth, grit, and the spirit of the game. Held this past weekend, the event brought together rising stars, seasoned professionals, and the often-unsung heroes behind the scenes to honour a season rich in milestones.
From the raw energy of youth development to the precision of professional play, every level of the province’s cricket ecosystem was recognised. And rightly so—North West cricket continues to prove itself as a fertile ground for both talent and tenacity.
Nurturing the Future: Youth & Development Awards
The evening began with a tribute to the foundation of the game: its youngest participants. Recognition was given to players and coaches involved in the KFC Mini Cricket programme, Hubs, and Provincial Age Group competitions. These platforms are more than just stepping stones—they are launchpads for future Proteas.
The Western Legends Cubs and SA U19 representatives were also highlighted for their national-level achievements, with their performances serving as a beacon for the next generation.
Crucially, awards were also handed to the people who make these programmes possible—coaches, scorers, and umpires—many of whom work tirelessly with little spotlight.
Holding the Fort: Club & Senior Cricket Awards
The backbone of the game at community level, Club and Rural Cricket, received well-earned recognition. From Sunday fixtures to regional tournaments, club players and administrators often keep the heartbeat of cricket alive in towns and villages across the province.
The NWC Academy Colts—a crucial feeder system for elite cricket—celebrated its top achievers, while Blind Cricket participants were acknowledged for their continued growth and contribution to inclusive sport.
Both the Women’s and Men’s Premier Leagues produced standout performances this past season, signalling not just depth, but genuine quality in North West’s domestic cricket structure.
Dragons Roar: Professional Player Awards
🔸 Glencore Dragons Women’s Awards:
Deidre van Rensburg
T20 Batter of the Year
One-Day Batter of the Year
Player of the Year
Recognised for her consistency and game-changing performances.
Ane Saunderson
T20 Bowler of the Year
Alyssa Erxleben
One-Day Bowler of the Year
Nthabiseng Nini
Player’s Player
Honoured for her influence both on and off the field.
🔸 Glencore Dragons Men’s Awards:
Wihan Lubbe
T20 Player of the Year
Player of the Year
Celebrated for his all-round performance and leadership on the field.
Ruan de Swardt
4-Day Player of the Year
Player’s Player
Acknowledged for his consistency and team spirit.
Caleb Seleka
One-Day Player of the Year
Recognised for a standout breakthrough season.
Beyond the Boundary: Special Mentions
The evening wasn’t just about runs and wickets. Lifetime Achievement and Long Service Awards recognised decades of dedication, while Presidential Awards honoured players who represented the province at national level. A Special Achievement Award was also presented for extraordinary contributions to the game—a reminder that cricket's story is as much about people as it is about performance.
The Team Behind the Team
The event, hosted at the stylish Snowflake Venue, wouldn’t have been possible without the support of a broad coalition of sponsors and partners. From OFM to NWU, and from Eastvaal Renault Potch to Sunbake, the commitment of these organisations fuels the game’s development at all levels.
Looking Ahead
If the 2024/25 season proved anything, it’s that North West cricket is not just surviving—it’s thriving. The combination of grassroots investment, club culture, and professional excellence is creating a strong pipeline of talent and a shared vision for the future.
As the lights dimmed and the trophies found their new homes, one thing was clear: in the North West, cricket isn’t just a sport—it’s a community.
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