Reader Aaron Blackburn is the opening batsman and captain for Umhlali Prep U9A Cricket Team in Ballito and shares a valuable cricket lesson for all cricketers.

I am passionate about cricket… and here is my story.

It was the final match of the season and we were facing our biggest rivals – Ashton College – and their strongest bowlers.

The wind was howling and it was a scorching hot Friday afternoon; we started well and soon had their backs against the wall, but following a gritty fightback – and us giving away some shocking extras – they posted 87 at the end of 20 overs.

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We were confident but knew their bowlers were their greatest strength. I lost my opening partner within the first few balls, and I felt good but lost my wicket after a few overs to some great spin bowling. Things got tense, all the parents were cheering and the nerves started to show.

With one over to go, we needed nine runs to win… and on the final ball, one of my friends hit the winning run.

I learned that even when I don’t do as well as I want to, my teammates are there and we are winners together.

Undefeated in 2018!

I love cricket!

– Aaron Blackburn (9, submitted by parent)