Dane Paterson Receives Makhaya Ntini Award for Impact Beyond the Field

Johannesburg – At the annual CSA awards ceremony held Thursday night, Dane Paterson, a fast bowler celebrated for his humility, was recognized with the prestigious Makhaya Ntini Power of Cricket Award. This award acknowledges individuals who have experienced positive life transformation through their involvement in cricket.

Dane Paterson (centre) played a key role in South Africa's journey to the WTC final victory. © Getty

While 61 awards were presented across various categories, including recognition for curators, scorers, umpires, coaches, and players of all ages and genders, Paterson's honor stood out. Previous recipients of the Makhaya Ntini Award include Ottneil Baartman, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Mondli Khumalo, and Masabata Klaas.

Despite having only seven Test caps and a modest record in both white-ball formats, Paterson's impact on South African cricket is undeniable. His first-class record boasts 625 wickets at an average of 24.13.

Paterson's contribution was particularly significant in South Africa's journey to the World Test Championship (WTC) final against Australia. His outstanding performances, including a 5/71 against Sri Lanka and a 5/61 against Pakistan, both in December, were instrumental in securing South Africa's place in the final.

Although he wasn't selected for the final XI, which South Africa won, his earlier efforts were widely acknowledged as crucial to the team's success.

At 36 years old, Paterson may not possess the raw pace of younger bowlers like Kagiso Rabada or Mitchell Starc. His down-to-earth nature and approachability have made him a respected figure in the cricketing community.

In a fitting turn of events, Paterson was absent from the awards ceremony due to a family matter, highlighting his humble and grounded character.

His absence from the ceremony mirrored his non-selection for the WTC final, yet those present acknowledged that without his remarkable bowling performances, South Africa might not have reached the final, making the celebrations less significant.

Selected CSA Professional Award Winners:

• Men's T20I Player of the Year: Anrich Nortje
• Men's ODI Player of the Year: Heinrich Klaasen
• Men's Test Player of the Year: Temba Bavuma
• Men's Players' Player of the Year: Kagiso Rabada
• Men's Player of the Year: Keshav Maharaj
• Women's T20I Player of the Year: Nonkululeko Mlaba
• Women's ODI Player of the Year: Annerie Dercksen
• Women's Players' Player of the Year: Nonkululeko Mlaba
• Women's Player of the Year: Nonkululeko Mlaba
• Fans' Player of the Year: Temba Bavuma
• Makhaya Ntini Power of Cricket Award: Dane Paterson