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MI Cape Town‘s wicketkeeper-batter Ryan Rickelton has shared his aspirations and reflections as he prepares for the upcoming SA20 season. Speaking about his ambitions, Rickelton emphasized the importance of making his mark both domestically and internationally.
“There are going to be some shifts in the group. We’ve got a lot of experienced players, and with Rob as the leader, there will be opportunities coming my way. My goal is to cement a spot in the team and, hopefully, get back into the Test side. I’d also like to participate in more leagues in the year to come,” Rickelton said.
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Rickelton credited Hashim Amla, former MI Cape Town and current Lions batting coach, for playing a pivotal role in his development. “It’s actually nice to have Hash throughout the whole summer with both teams. Batting is a very relationship-based thing; it’s not just about throwing thoughts at a player during nets. It’s a two-way street, where time together is key. Hash has helped me with clarity on my mindset, guiding me when things aren’t going well and even when they are. He reminds me to go back to what I was doing well. Having someone like Hash constantly around, who understands my strengths and weaknesses, has been awesome.”
On the interplay between his wicketkeeping and batting, Rickelton noted how the two disciplines complement each other. “Keeping definitely has an effect on batting. It keeps you in tune with the game, helping you recondition better and quicker. I like being involved, and from behind the stumps, you can often see things unfold before they happen. When it comes to batting, I’ve worked on one or two shots, but mostly, it’s a mindset shift. I’ve always known I had the power; now, it’s about unlocking it with freedom and not worrying about getting out.”
Reflecting on his motivations and love for cricket, Rickelton acknowledged how his perspective has evolved over the years. “When you start, you play for the love of the game, but as you grow older, records, financial gains, and enjoyment all play a part. Ultimately, I play for myself, my team, and to win – whether that’s for MI Cape Town, Lions, or South Africa. I want to perform, challenge myself at a high level, and contribute to the team. At the end of the day, it’s about having fun and enjoying the game.”
Cricket, he added, has shaped him not just as a player but also as a person. “I love it. Cricket has given me everything and is a foundation of who I am. It teaches discipline, consistency, and hard work, which I try to carry into my life outside of cricket. Some days are harder than others, but I love waking up, going outside, and playing. It’s about competing, seeing my mates do well, and traveling the world with them. If I had the choice to do it all over again, even with the highs and lows.”
As SA20 season 3 approaches, Rickelton’s focus and passion underscore his determination to make a meaningful impact for MI Cape Town and beyond.
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