A cricket star from Bethlehem has excelled, collecting many accolades since first picking up a cricket bat in 2018.
The 20-year-old Matthew Maritz is a talented young man with an innate cricketing talent, which has brought him numerous highlights in his short but illustrious career.
He recently he received word from his agent that he is most likely going to play club cricket in either England or Australia next year.
“I am very excited about the good news, but also grateful for the opportunities that have come my way,” he shared.
Matthew has a passion for cricket and was recently chosen to play for the Eastern Free State seniors cricket team and the Northern Cape Cricket Academy. Last year he played for the Voortrekker High School’s first team, as well as the Jozi Warriors, and at the beginning of this year he competed in the Free State Premier League (FPL). He was also invited to play for the Khosa Cricket Club in the Diadora Jozi Cup 2023.
“Cricket is a sport that can be played at any stage in life. Batting is my favorite part of the game and I think I have managed this skill very well. It also offers opportunities that I am very grateful for, and it is a sport in which I can express myself.”
Matthew started his cricketing career at the age of 16 years and was coached by Ntsako Sono in Phalaborwa. Currently, Matthew receives training from Sello Mabuya and is a very dedicated cricket player with good discipline. He practices at least five to six days a week.
Matthew is also a member of the Bethlehem Dorp Cricket Club. The cricket season normally starts in September and ends in March, but he chooses to further hone his skills by practising throughout the year.
In addition to his cricketing prowess, Matthew assists with gymnastics coaching.
Matthew is the eldest son of Coenie and Daphne Maritz, who support their son in his endeavours.
