Eveleen Kejarukua said she hopes to play in the Women’s T20 World Cup one day, a dream ignited after she reached some of her career milestones in the recent World Cup qualifiers.

During an International Cricket Council Women’s T20 World Cup qualifying game in September this year, Namibia’s senior women’s cricket team played against Nigeria, where the Capricorn Eagles edged the West African nation by eight wickets. 

In that match, Kejarukua was the standout performer, recording her best stats so far: bowling four overs, two maidens, conceding just five runs and finishing with an impressive economy rate of 1.5.

“These stats might seem ordinary to some – but for me, they were life-changing,” she said. 

“The highlight of my year has been this field performance. During the African qualifiers against Nigeria, I happened to be the best player on the field, recording life-changing stats in my entire cricket career,” she added.

Kejarukua’s journey to this moment, however, began far from cricket pitches. 

Growing up, she was actively involved in sport, playing netball, soccer and a few other games. 

“A friend of mine who played cricket told me about trials Cricket Namibia (CN) was planning for girls. I went to the U16 trials. Ever since then, I never looked back,” she said. 

Kejarukua draws inspiration from the FNB Eagle Bernard Scholtz, whose calm and structured approach on the crease she admires and tries to emulate as a fellow spin bowler. 

She added that Capricorn Eagles’ teammate Wilka Mwatile has always pushed her to better herself and set an example both on and off the pitch. 

“My coaches, Francois and Gerhard, have always believed in me, making sure I am on top of my game. They remind me that I am a warrior and should never stop believing in myself no matter how hard it gets,” she added.

Kejarukua praised CN for their efforts to promote women’s cricket. 

She said the sport has grown in Namibia – thanks to the federation’s efforts. 

“We have our own cricket fields, world-class stadiums and amazing gyms. Cricket Namibia ensures players are taken care of financially and medically, and that no player is left behind. 

The women’s team is treated equally to the men’s team, which motivates us to keep performing at our best,” she said.

Speaking on how her family supported her career, Kejarukua said: “My mother has always reminded me that nothing good comes easy. 

She works hard to ensure I have the best equipment and is always there cheering me on. My family has been a true support system”.

Looking ahead, her sights are set firmly on the future. 

“In the next five years, I want to continue playing for my country at the highest level. Our goal is to qualify for the Women’s World Cup in England. 

I also want to give back to the community and inspire young girls to follow in my footsteps,” she said.

– mkambukwe@nepc.com.na