KwaZulu-Natal Inland

KwaZulu-Natal Inland, a determined force in South Africa’s domestic cricket landscape, was established in 2006 as part of Cricket South Africa's efforts to expand the reach of the game beyond the traditional powerhouses. While still relatively young compared to some of its rivals, the team has carved out a reputation for itself as a breeding ground for talented cricketers and for playing with a tenacity that reflects the spirited culture of the region it represents.

The team competes in South Africa’s domestic competitions, with the 4-Day Franchise Series and the CSA Provincial One-Day Challenge being significant platforms where they've showcased their talent. Although KwaZulu-Natal Inland is yet to claim significant silverware, the team has had respectable performances that have been key in unsettling more established teams, demonstrating their mettle on numerous occasions. Their ambition is unmistakably clear, fuelled by a desire to challenge for honours and grow the game in the region.

Throughout its brief history, KwaZulu-Natal Inland has been home to several gifted cricketers who have left their mark. Players such as Cody Chetty, who demonstrated exceptional potential as a middle-order batsman, and Kyle Nipper, known for his all-round capabilities, have played crucial roles. Nipper’s left-arm spin and steady batting have often been the backbone in several critical matches. Additionally, under the guidance of senior players over the years, the team has honed a group of young players who have made headlines with their spirited performances.

Some of the more notable encounters have come against neighbouring KwaZulu-Natal Cricket Union, creating an intensely local rivalry that adds an extra edge each time the teams face off.

KwaZulu-Natal Inland's playing style reflects a blend of solid technique and gritty fighting spirit. They are known for their robust, workmanlike approach to the game, emphasizing steady, tactical play over flamboyance. The pitch at the Pietermaritzburg Oval, their home ground, often supports this style, offering assistance to bowlers while demanding patience and application from batsmen.

Culturally, the team enjoys a vibrant connection with their supporters, who are as passionate as they are determined, reflecting the diverse and culturally rich region they represent. The fans, despite the team’s underdog status, rally behind them wholeheartedly, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere at matches. This amalgamation of grit, ambition, and a deep-rooted connection with local supporters defines KwaZulu-Natal Inland as they continue their quest to rise through the ranks of South African cricket.

Regular Season, 56th Match, CSA T20 Challenge - April 21, 2024

KwaZulu-Natal Inland

132/9 (20)

Lions

136/3 (17.3)

Lions won by 7 wickets (With 15 balls remaining)

Regular Season, 50th Match, CSA T20 Challenge - April 19, 2024

Dolphins

112/2 (14.1)

KwaZulu-Natal Inland

108/10 (18.3)

Dolphins won by 8 wickets (with 35 balls remaining)

Regular Season, 48th Match, CSA T20 Challenge - April 17, 2024

KwaZulu-Natal Inland

119/9 (20)

Rocks (Boland)

121/3 (17.4)

Rocks (Boland) won by 7 wickets (with 14 balls remaining)

Regular Season, 46th Match, CSA T20 Challenge - April 14, 2024

Titans

142/2 (12.3)

KwaZulu-Natal Inland

141/10 (19.4)

Titans won by 8 wickets (with 45 balls remaining)

Regular Season, 40th Match, CSA T20 Challenge - April 12, 2024

KwaZulu-Natal Inland

143/9 (20)

Warriors

174/5 (20)

Warriors won by 31 runs

Alindile Mhletywa
Position: Batsman
Batting Style: Right Hand Bat
Age: 25

Cameron Delport
Position: Top Order Batter
Batting Style: Left Hand Bat
Bowling Style: Right Arm Fast Medium
Age: 36

Cameron Shekleton
Position: Wicketkeeper
Batting Style: Right Hand Bat
Age: 25

Dilivio Ridgaard
Position: Wicketkeeper
Batting Style: Left Hand Bat
Age: 27

Keith Dudgeon
Position: Bowler
Batting Style: Right Hand Bat
Bowling Style: Right Arm Fast Medium
Age: 29

Malcolm Nofal
Position: Batsman
Batting Style: Left Hand Bat
Bowling Style: Slow Left Arm Orthodox
Age: 34

Mbulelo Budaza
Position: Bowler
Batting Style: Right Hand Bat
Bowling Style: Left Arm Fast
Age: 32

Michael Erlank
Position: Batsman
Batting Style: Left Hand Bat
Bowling Style: Right Arm Offbreak
Age: 35

Mondli Khumalo
Position: Bowler
Batting Style: Right Hand Bat
Bowling Style: Right Arm Fast
Age: 24

Smangaliso Nhlebela
Position: Allrounder
Batting Style: Right Hand Bat
Bowling Style: Slow Left Arm Orthodox
Age: 31

Thamsanqa Kumalo
Position: Batsman
Batting Style: Left Hand Bat
Bowling Style: Right Arm Offbreak
Age: 26

Kurtlyn Mannikam
Position: Allrounder
Batting Style: Right Hand Bat
Bowling Style: Right Arm Offbreak
Age: 29

Kagiso Rapulana
Position: Allrounder
Batting Style: Right Hand Bat
Bowling Style: Right Arm Fast Medium
Age: 34

Ruben Trumpelmann
Position: Bowler
Batting Style: Right Hand Bat
Bowling Style: Left Arm Fast
Age: 27

Yaseen Valli
Position: Allrounder
Batting Style: Left Hand Bat
Bowling Style: Slow Left Arm Orthodox
Age: 30

Ntando Zuma
Position: Wicketkeeper
Batting Style: Right Hand Bat
Age: 20

Tian Koekemoer
Position: Allrounder
Batting Style: Left Hand Bat
Bowling Style: Left Arm Fast Medium
Age: 31

Thando Ntini
Position: Bowler
Batting Style: Left Hand Bat
Bowling Style: Right Arm Fast
Age: 25

Kyle Nipper
Position: Allrounder
Batting Style: Left Hand Bat
Bowling Style: Slow Left Arm Orthodox
Age: 37

City Oval
City: Pietermaritzburg
Country: South Africa

North-West University No1 Ground
City: Potchefstroom
Country: South Africa