Lions Academy duo Tumelo Yeki and Nkanyiso Mkhize have joined Pirates Cricket Club.
Yeki and Mkhize will be available for Pirates Cricket Club’s 2023-24 Lions Cricket premier league A campaign.
“Pirates Cricket Club are proud to announce a game-changing development in its commitment to nurturing young talent in South African cricket,” read a statement from the club.
“The club has welcomed two promising young players, Tumelo Yeki and Nkanyiso Mkhize, into its ranks. Both have been awarded sports bursaries by the club.
“Pirates Cricket Club have partnered with ETA College, while fundraising for the initiative is made possible by the SA Ubuntu Foundation.
“The club is extremely grateful to these two organisations for making it possible to offer these budding cricketers the opportunity to acquire sports-related qualifications while pursuing their passion.

Nkanyiso Mkhize.
“Tumelo Yeki, formerly associated with Wits University Cricket Club, and Nkanyiso Mkhize, who honed his skills at Kagiso Cricket Club, will now embark on a new journey with Pirates Cricket Club, where they aim to further elevate their cricketing prowess.
“However, their journey with Pirates isn’t just about the game; it’s about holistic development. As part of this groundbreaking partnership with ETA College, Yeki and Mkhize will commence their ETA courses during the season. This strategic collaboration seeks to broaden the horizons of these two young talents and equip them with skills and knowledge that extend beyond the cricket pitch.
“Pirates Cricket Club recognise the importance of preparing its players for life after cricket, ensuring that they are not only successful on the field, but also in the sports industry as a whole. The inclusion of these two talented players is seen as a significant step forward for Pirates Cricket Club, who have a rich history of producing top-class cricketers.
“By offering sports bursaries and education through ETA College, the club is reaffirming its commitment to fostering excellence both on and off the field. This initiative not only benefits the individuals involved, but also contributes to the overall growth and development of cricket in the region.”
Pirates Cricket Club won the 2022-23 Lions Cricket premier league B title to be promoted to this season’s premier league A. Former captain Chad Roberts has been appointed director of cricket. Former Lions seamer Aya Myoli has been named head coach.
“We are also very proud of Siya Sithole, our first bursary recipient who played an important role in the premier league-winning side of 2022-23 and has now received an opportunity in his home province of Mpumalanga. We wish him all the best and are very proud to have played a small part in his development as a cricketer and a person,” continued Pirates Cricket Club’s statement.
Lions Cricket chief executive officer Jono Leaf-Wright added: “This is a great opportunity for players, which is so appreciated as we not only develop the cricket skill of a particular individual but also enhance their academic journey through great support of Pirates CC, ETA and the SA Ubuntu Foundation.”
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