Pupils enjoyed a day of tasty meals and thrilling displays of sportsmanship.

The annual KFC Mini-Cricket tournament, hosted by Moral Foods Management in partnership with Cricket South Africa, continues to inspire the next generation of cricket enthusiasts. The festival, held for mainstream schools in the Phoenix district, brought together 42 schools, each proudly represented by eight young players.

KFC - Figure 1
Photo Phoenix Sun

KFC Mini-Cricket, a programme designed for children aged three to 12, has introduced thousands of South African youngsters to the joys of cricket since its inception in the 2009/ 2010 season. More than just a game, this initiative fosters a love for healthy lifestyles while steering children away from negative influences, such as drugs.

Moral Foods Management has been hosting the Phoenix district’s mini-cricket tournaments since 2018. Spearheading the initiative is the organisation’s CEO and director of KFC, Mr Mohan Rughubeer, a passionate advocate for community development. “Seeing the smiles and excitement on the faces of these young players as they emulate their national heroes makes it all worthwhile,” he said.

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Rughubeer’s commitment extends beyond organising the event. Each participant receives T-shirts, medals, and meals, ensuring an unforgettable experience.

“This event is about more than cricket. It’s about building confidence, fostering teamwork, and giving children memories they’ll cherish forever,” he added.

This year’s event showcased the determination and enthusiasm of the young cricketers who displayed remarkable sportsmanship and skill on the field. Moral Foods Management is equally dedicated to ensuring inclusivity in sports. On Wednesday, November 20, the organisation will host the 11th annual KFC Mini-Cricket tournament for KwaZulu-Natal Pupils of Special Education Needs, continuing its tradition of making cricket accessible to all.

As the mini-cricket programme grows, plans are in place to expand its reach, giving more children across the province an opportunity to participate. With continued support from KFC and Cricket South Africa, the initiative aims to inspire even more young players to step onto the cricket field, developing not only their skills but also their passion for the sport. The Phoenix district’s KFC Mini-Cricket tournament stands as a testament to the power of sports to unite, inspire, and shape young minds, ensuring a promising future for South Africa’s cricketing legacy.

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