University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) lecturer and blind cricket team manager Dr Khumbuzile Khumalo played a central role in the success of the 2025 FAB 4 T20 Blind Cricket Face-Off, hosted in Durban.
Khumalo, an expert in Biokinetics, Exercise and Leisure Sciences, reflected on her journey with blind cricket: “Being part of blind cricket has strengthened my confidence and taught me the importance of perseverance. I’ve gained invaluable experience in leadership, teamwork, and strategy.
“Looking ahead, I plan to complete an umpiring course to continue contributing to the growth and inclusivity of blind cricket. I hope to see blind cricket develop in other districts of KwaZulu-Natal and become part of the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) Games. I also want to encourage more women to take part in this sport, which is not yet widely popular.”
Her words echoed the broader vision of the KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Association for Blind Cricket, which successfully staged this historic tournament at the Dokkies Sports Fields – the first FAB 4 T20 event since the introduction of blind cricket in the province. The event brought together four of South Africa’s premier blind cricket sides: Hollywoodbets Dolphins, DP World Lions, Boland, and the North West Dragons.
Opening the tournament, KZN Association for Blind Cricket President Mr Ndumiso Nyawose described the occasion as “a celebration of talent, resilience, and inclusivity,” urging players to embody pride, passion, and sportsmanship. “Blind cricket reminds us that sport has no boundaries. You, our players, are role models who inspire us all,” he added.
The three-day competition offered nail-biting cricket from the outset. The Hollywoodbets Dolphins thrilled home supporters with a seven-wicket victory over Boland before narrowly losing to the DP World Lions. They regrouped to defeat the North West Dragons, setting up a much-anticipated final with the Lions.
The championship clash lived up to expectations, with the Lions chasing down their target to claim the FAB 4 T20 crown. Boland took third place after overcoming the Dragons.
Standout Performances included:
• Best B1 Bowler: Mr Mathula Dlamini (Hollywoodbets Dolphins)
• Best B1 Batsman: Mr Thembani Mpanza (Hollywoodbets Dolphins)
• Best B2 Bowler and Batsman: Mr Buhle Bhidla (DP World Lions)
• Best B3 Bowler: Mr Ralton Pienaar (Boland)
• Best B3 Batsman: Mr Max Geerthsen (North West Dragons)
Equally important were the contributions of officials and volunteers. Former Sport Science student Ms Nokwethemba Mwelase and scorer Ms Nosihle Buthelezi described the event as “tremendous” in providing invaluable training and preparation towards becoming qualified blind cricket scorers.
Nyawose expressed gratitude to sponsors, volunteers, umpires, officials, and scorers, as well as Association co-founders Mr Shane Mahabeer and Mr Manni Mothilal, for ensuring a smooth and successful tournament.
As KZN cements its role as a hub for blind cricket, focus now shifts to the Blind Cricket South Africa (BCSA) T20 National Tournament in Stellenbosch (5-9 October 2025), where all 10 provincial sides will compete for national honours – and the Dolphins will aim to reclaim the national title.
