The University of Johannesburg’s cricket programme continues to make waves globally, with two of its distinguished alumni, Ryan Rickelton and Siyabonga Sibiya, achieving remarkable feats that highlight UJ’s legacy of sporting excellence.

Ryan Rickelton, an alumnus of UJ Cricket, has been a standout performer for the Proteas Test team. His stellar batting displays have been instrumental in securing South Africa’s place in the ICC World Test Championship Final, to be held at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground in England in June 2025.

Rickelton’s masterful innings of 259 at Newlands, Cape Town, now ranks as the fifth-highest Test score by a South African. His artistry at the crease, coupled with an unwavering focus, made this performance one for the history books.

Notably, Rickelton shares this achievement with fellow UJ Cricket Club alumnus and Proteas captain, Temba Bavuma, who also scored a century in the same match. Their shared success underscores the high calibre of talent cultivated within UJ’s cricket programme. UJ Cricket celebrates these extraordinary milestones and their enduring impact on South Africa’s cricketing journey.

Meanwhile, Siyabonga Sibiya, UJ Cricket’s Manager and Coach, has made his mark on the international coaching stage. Recognised for his expertise and leadership, Sibiya was appointed interim red-ball coach for the Pakistan Test team following a collaborative decision by Cricket South Africa (CSA) and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). This prestigious appointment is a testament to the confidence UJ instils in its cricketing leaders.

Sibiya’s role was both challenging and significant preparing the Pakistan Test team for their high-profile Boxing Day and New Year’s Test series against South Africa. His success in this role reflects the robust training and leadership principles embedded in UJ Cricket’s ethos.

The UJ cricket community takes immense pride in these achievements, which spotlight the university’s unwavering commitment to nurturing excellence in sports. As Rickelton and Sibiya continue to excel, they serve as shining examples of UJ’s ability to produce world-class athletes and professionals. The future is undoubtedly bright for UJ Cricket as it continues to inspire and develop the next generation of cricketing greats.

Khumalo Joins SA U19 Squad

Further demonstrating UJ’s commitment to developing young talent, Martin Khumalo, a UJ student pursuing a degree in Marketing and Sales, has been selected for the South Africa Under-19 Test Team to face England. This selection follows Khumalo’s impressive performances with the Eastern Storm and at his maiden appearance during the 2024 USSA championship in Bloemfontein.

The announcement was made during the Cricket South Africa Cubs Week Final Dinner on Tuesday, 7 January 2025.

Known for his exceptional talent, speed, aggression, and passion for the game, Khumalo has quickly established himself as a rising star in South African cricket. His determination and skill on the field have earned him this well-deserved opportunity to showcase his abilities on the international stage.

“As UJ Cricket, we are immensely proud of Martin’s achievements and are confident in his bright future. We wish him all the best as he prepares to take on England in the upcoming series and continue to make his mark in the world of cricket,” says Coach Sibiya.

UJ Sport Celebrates Success

Ms. Nomsa Mahlangu, Senior Director of UJ Sport, expressed her excitement and pride in the achievements of Rickelton, Sibiya, and Khumalo. She emphasized the university’s dedication to nurturing talented cricket professionals and supporting their journey to success on the international stage.

“We salute both of them for their superb achievements. The UJ cricket fraternity is thrilled to see one of its own achieve greatness on the international stage, and the appointment of Mr. Siyabonga Sibiya as the Interim Coach of the Pakistan Test Team is a reflection of the University’s commitment to producing talented and dedicated cricket professionals. As the cricketing world looks forward to an exciting new year, the UJ cricket community will undoubtedly be watching with bated breath, eager to see what the future holds for our star Ryan Rickelton and Coach Sibiya,” she said.

The UJ cricket community eagerly anticipates the future achievements of these rising stars and established figures in the cricketing world.

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