Cricket Namibia, in collaboration with Capricorn Group, hosted the Capricorn Eagles Quadrangular T20 International Tournament, a week-long tournament that was played at the United Cricket Ground in Windhoek.
The Capricorn Eagles Quadrangular featured Hong Kong, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Uganda, who competed against the Namibian national side, affectionately known as the Capricorn Eagles.
Overall, Uganda came out on top, with Namibia coming in second. And the tournament’s brightest star was none other than Wilka Mwatile, a 22-year-old from Walvis Bay.
The youthful, gifted Mwatile was interviewed by SRSM on her outstanding performance and cricket path.
Thank you for chatting to us: How did you start playing cricket?
When I was 12 years old, I started playing cricket for fun during PE at Nara Primary School.
Have you ever considered becoming a professional cricket player?
Yes, when I was 16 years old, I always pictured myself playing cricket with pros one day.
Who inspired you to pursue cricket as a career?
Mauritius Ngupita and Ben Shikongo, we started playing cricket together in primary school. After that, they started traveling and seeing different countries, and I wanted to be traveling and seeing new places like them.
What difficulties did you face when you started your career?
Having to choose between school and cricket was a challenge for me.
Who do you consider as your inspiration?
Nicole Lofty-Eaton
Which format is your favorite? Test, ODI, T20?
So far, I have only played T20, but I prefer ODI.
Being called up to represent your country—what is the feeling like?
Representing my country in cricket is a huge achievement, as cricket is a sport that is followed passionately in many parts of the world. It is an honor and a privilege to wear my country’s colors and compete against other top-level cricketers from around the world.
Tell us about your first international game.
I hit my first four when I was in SA U16.
What does it mean to you that you were awarded the Quadrangular’s top player?
It means a lot to me, and it has given me more self-assurance as an all-rounder.
Which Quadrangular game did you enjoy watching the most?
First match against Uganda when I comfortably hit three sixes.
What would you still like to achieve in your career?
Looking forward to improving my stats with more runs and wickets.
What is your advice to 10-15 old kids who want to become cricketers?
Start with the basics: Focus on building a strong foundation of basic cricketing skills, such as batting, bowling, fielding, and wicket-keeping. Work with a coach or mentor who can help you develop good technique and form.
Practice consistently: Regular practice is key to improving your cricketing skills. Try to practice as often as you can, whether it’s with a team, with friends, or on your own.
Play matches: Playing matches is a great way to gain experience and improve your game. Join a local cricket club or school team and participate in matches and tournaments.
Watch and learn: Watch professional cricket matches and observe how the top players approach the game. Pay attention to their technique, tactics, and mind-set, and try to incorporate what you learn into your own game.
Stay fit and healthy. Cricket requires a high level of fitness and stamina. Make sure you stay in good physical condition by eating a healthy diet, getting plenty of rest, and engaging in regular exercise.
Be dedicated and disciplined. Becoming a successful cricketer takes time, effort, and dedication. Be prepared to work hard, stay focused, and persevere through setbacks and challenges.
Enjoy the game. Finally, remember that cricket is a fun and enjoyable sport. Don’t lose sight of the joy and passion that drew you to the game in the first place, and try to approach each practice and match with enthusiasm and a positive attitude.
Fun facts about the Eagles
Who is the entertainer in the team?
Yasmeen khan is the entertainer in the team.
Who listens to music mostly in the team?
Arasta Diergaardt is a music fan
Who in the team always surprises you on the field?
Didi foester and Mekelaye Mwatile surprise me a lot.
