Emerging as a standout talent, the South African U-19 sensation, Kwena Maphaka, catapulted into the spotlight with a remarkable performance that secured a victory for the hosts against West Indies in the second match of the U19 World Cup 2024 at Potchefstroom on Friday, January 19.
In pursuit of a challenging target of 286, West Indies found themselves dismissed for 254, leaving 9.5 overs unused. This outcome underscored the critical and timely impact of Maphaka’s breakthroughs on the course of the match.
Dazzling the cricketing world with an impressive bowling display, Maphaka claimed an impressive 5 wickets for 38 runs, earning him the well-deserved title of Player of the Match. His celebration, reminiscent of the iconic style often seen in star Indian speedster Jasprit Bumrah, where he extends his arms wide in a nonchalant ‘I don’t know’ manner, quickly became a viral sensation.
In a candid video shared on the ICC’s Instagram page following South Africa’s triumph, Kwena Maphaka provided insights into the inspiration behind his unique celebration. He said:
“I actually asked my brother for a celebration to give me just before the World Cup. And he just said ‘I have no clue. I don’t know’. I said, ‘You know what, that sounds good. Let me go with the “I don’t know” celebration.”
Maphaka confidently conveyed a message to Jasprit Bumrah, underlining the left-arm pacer’s self-assurance. He remarked:
“Jasprit you’re a great bowler. Hopefully, I am better than you.”
Kwena Maphaka Shares Thoughts on His Game
Kwena Maphaka did something special in the game. When South Africa was having a hard time and needed a good play, Maphaka stepped up. At one point, the score was 225/7, and two players, Jewel Andre, and Nathan Edwards, were making things tough with a 25-run partnership for the eighth wicket.
South Africa needed a boost, and that’s when Maphaka returned to the game and got two of the remaining three wickets. Let’s hear what Maphaka, the left-arm pacer, had to say about his game:
“It’s definitely a great way to get the World Cup started off. We knew we had it in us. We were just waiting for that performance. I am happy it could come out today and hopefully a few more.”
It was just right that Kwena Maphaka got the last wicket in the game, catching Isai Thorne right in front. South Africa’s next match in the U19 World Cup is against England at the same place on Tuesday, January 23.
