As part of its ENVISION2030 strategy, the Durban University of Technology (DUT) aspires to produce adaptive graduates that will participate productively in the development of our region, country and the world. Mnqobi Ngobese, DUT Communication’s editorial team member, recently engaged with the DUT Cricket star Lindokuhle Kwanele Mabaso, to share his student experience through sports and academics and how she lives the DUT Living Values.
Name : Lindokuhle Kwanele Mabaso
Place of birth : Melmoth
Sport code : Cricket
Position: All-rounder
Qualification: Bachelor of Sport Science and Management
Q: When did you join the DUT Sport Team?
A: “I started playing for the club in 2021 up until now”
Q: What sparked your interest in this type of sport?
A: “I Just loved the game from my early childhood. Unfortunately from where I come from we do not have the facilities to play the sport. But as soon as I got to DUT I was not going to miss the opportunity.”
Q: In terms of the position you play, elaborate what it entails and how it benefits the team?
A: “An all-rounder is very important in cricket because you get to contribute with both the bat and the ball.”
Q: Which other sport codes are you interested in and why?
A: “Football is my favourite sport. I just love the game and have big ambitions about the sport. I once played the game but unfortunately I was not good enough to continue so I decided to do coaching.”
Q: What is the biggest tournament you have participated in?
A: “The University Sports South Africa (USSA) tournament.”
Q: Why is it vital for DUT to develop students in sports?
A: “It is very important as students get to interact with people and spend their leisure time in a fruitful way.”
Q: Who is your sport role model and why?
A: “My role model is coach Darryl. He played for the DUT Cricket Club and now he is coaching Dolphin and KZN.”
Q: Which ENVISION2030 Living Values and Principles do you associate with and why?
A: “I resonate with respect as a I believe it is a foundation to a successful life.”
Q: Do you see a future in cricket?
A: “Yes, maybe not as a professional player but maybe I can have a career in coaching the game.”
Q: As a DUT sport star, how does your role benefit your community?
A: “When kids from the township see someone they know playing at a varsity level it’s brings that hunger to push and follow the path.”
Q: What impact has sport made on your life?
A: “Sport promotes discipline and respect. In cricket we are fortunate enough to be in a team with different races and we get an opportunity to understand everyone.”
Q: Can you suggest some ideas to attract spectators to varsity sport?
A: “Create small prizes to be won. A simple example could be the one that Cricket South Africa is doing in their T20 matches where if a spectator catches the ball with one hand wins a million rands. Since we are at a varsity level, the reward could be anything maybe even a R100 food voucher. This can attract more people to attend the games. Also, there is no transportation for the fans. If they can provide transport for them in games that are played far.”
Photographer: Mnqobi Ngobese.
