Exploring cricket development in the North-West Province

MBA, North-West University, Potchefstroom CampusDeveloping cricket in the South African landscape is a unique opportunity and challenge. The North-West province falls under Cricket South Africa’s mandate. To develop cricket in South Africa, certain transformation targets need to be met, and financial struggles need to be overcome. The primary objective of this study was to assess the development of cricket in the North-West with an in-depth investigation, by means of a literature survey as well as an empirical study. The main aim was to obtain a better understanding of how to develop cricket within South Africa and in the North-West province specifically. Specific reference in the literature study was made to CSA’s mandated development of batsmen and bowlers in the North-West province and to cricket development structures in Australia. Talent identification, with specific reference to talent identification within the North-West province, was also referenced. These are some challenges facing cricket administrators in the North-West province. The research methodology assumed the form of a qualitative study. Semi-structured interviews were scheduled on the Zoom platform. Interviews were conducted with specific professional cricketers all plying their trade or who used to ply their trade in the North-West province. Due to the exploratory nature of a semi-structured interview response, respondents could give their own opinions and be allowed to give valuable insights into the development of cricket in the North-West province. It was concluded that 10 main factors play a critical part in the development of cricket in the North-West province. The factors are present in the current structure, to some extent. The respondents did indicate that an improvement or better utilisation of the elements is needed. The elements of the North-West structure players identified as the most important are mental processes, quality coaching, communication and planning, the North-West University, opportunity/ quality of opportunity, Discipline/dedication, transformation schooling infrastructure and bottleneck after school. Practical recommendations were made to further develop maintain and improve these elements in young cricketers' lives. An identified action plan was designed to implement and further develop the cricket structures within the North West Province. It was further derived the overwhelming majority of players within the North West Province are satisfied by the elements provided to them, they do feel they can improve, but they do not feel that they are not provided with the necessary tools to make it as professional cricketers The major barriers found in the structure were identified with the transformation system being the primary one. The study found that the basic needs of the players were being met, but individual needs were not.Master