Two North-West University (NWU) Vanderbijlpark Campus students have made their mark on the national cricket scene, proudly representing the Sedibeng District at the CSA Senior Inland Rural Week 2025 in Mpumalanga.

Brian Kubayi (22), an honours degree student in Public Governance and Sports Portfolio member of the Student Campus Council (SCC), and Nkosinathi Tshabalala (20), a second-year BA Education student, stood out from a fiercely competitive selection process to join a 14-member squad, facing off against the top rural cricket talent of the country.

Their dedication, skill and campus spirit have put the NWU on the map in the national cricket arena. For both players, the tournament was more than just matches – it was a chance to learn, grow and test themselves under pressure.

Brian, who hails from Thembisa, admits that opportunities like this are few and far between in the Vanderbijlpark area. “I have played cricket all my life, but I never thought I would get a chance like this. My cricket career was at a low point, and this opportunity came at exactly the right moment. Competing here boosted my confidence and sharpened my leadership skills. Representing Sedibeng was a proud moment – it showed me that hard work on and off the field truly pays off,” he said.

Nkosinathi, from Duduza on the East Rand, found his way to cricket after stepping away from soccer in high school. “Joining the Sedibeng team gave me a second chance to fall in love with cricket,” he said. “Playing at this level pushes me to work harder, focus more and dream bigger. I want to continue representing my district or, maybe one day, play professionally.”

Both students also see the bigger picture beyond personal achievement. Brian, as part of his vision on the SCC, wants to make sport more visible, exciting and accessible on campus. “In our research students asked for more sporting opportunities. During my term, my goal is to add more sports codes and create an environment where anyone can get involved and shine,” he explained.

The duo’s success is a testament to the support and guidance provided by the Vanderbijlpark Campus. “The campus helped us prepare both mentally and physically for these matches. Their encouragement gave us confidence to perform at our best,” Nkosinathi said. “Consistency, hard work and belief in yourself are key for anyone who wants to make it big in sports,” Brian added.

Looking ahead, both players are gearing up for the Telkom Future Cup Tournament, which will wrap up in June, promising more high-stakes cricket action.

Shaun Meyer, Vanderbijlpark sports manager, praised their dedication and achievements.

“Brian and Nkosinathi are prime examples of what can be achieved with talent, discipline and perseverance. They represent the spirit of the Vanderbijlpark Campus – excelling academically while pursuing their sports dreams. Their participation at the CSA Senior Inland Rural Week has made our campus proud and we look forward to supporting them as they aim even higher in their cricket careers.”

NWU Vanderbijlpark Campus students Brian Kubayi and Nkosinathi Tshabalala proudly represented the Sedibeng District at the CSA Senior Inland Rural Week 2025 in Mpumalanga, showcasing their talent.