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DEVILS ABROAD
Today we are looking at the Great
JUSTIN VAN NIEKERK
The unassuming South African arrived at Keilor Park at the beginning of the 2013/14 Season and went about his business with the low fuss nature which endeared him to the KP faithful. It didn’t take long for his team mates to see his quality either, with a classy 88 on debut setting the tone and earning the respect of the squad instantly.
Due to a series of unfortunate events, Justin was thrust into the Captaincy in less than ideal circumstances, with his first match in charge being a Semi Final against Doutta Stars, which we lost by a narrow margin. In that game, however, Justin showed enough nous and game sense to be given the responsibility full time the following season.
As is the habit with KP Batsman who become Captains, Justin quickly developed into an All-Rounder, and with his consistent and wily medium pacers, was often found to be a handful for opposition batsman.
Unfortunately for both Justin and the KPCC, his stay was shortened due to work commitments, with him relocating to Sydney at the conclusion of the 2015/16 Season. He has since moved back to his homeland in South Africa, and was only too happy to speak to the Roaming Devil about his current situation.
Justin van Niekerk (Front, Left) after his final game for KPCC in 2015/16
“Unfortunately, Covid has put a proper spanner in the works over here from an amateur sport perspective but still having a go.
These days I’m playing for the Crusaders Cricket Club. I’m currently part of the Mighty 3rd XI at Crusaders, partly social and a big emphasis on post match hydration. The Club has an illustrious history of producing legends, with the likes of David Miller, Kyle Abbott and Shaun Pollock having their names up on the Honour Boards.
At the moment, I’m living in Umhlanga, Durban. Amy going strong and produced a new KP Devil (Jack) who is 9 months old and keeping us on our toes.
I have made a habit of checking the KP results online, and it’s fantastic to see the development and output from some of the guys I shared the Dressing Room with. I look forward to popping my head in next time we are allowed to travel.”
The KPCC continue to speak highly of Justin, and wish the Crusaders CC the best of luck for their future. We wish Justin, Amy and Jack all the happiness and health and look forward to having a frothy with Justin in the (hopefully) not too distant future.