As part of our Women’s Month campaign, “She Plays. She Leads. She Inspires”, we continue to celebrate the inspiring journeys of the women and girls whose lives have been shaped through cricket and the opportunities created by CATCH Trust.
This week, we are proud to feature Lisakhanya Blom, player and alumna of the Trust, whose journey is a testament to perseverance, growth and embracing every opportunity.
Like many young cricketers, Lisakhanya’s introduction to the game came close to home.
“I started playing cricket in primary school. I would watch my brother practice and wait until we could leave school together. Eventually, I decided to give cricket a try myself.”
At first, she wasn’t convinced that cricket was the sport for her.
“It seemed very dangerous,” she laughs. “I remember going home with a swollen lip after being hit by a cricket ball before I had even started playing properly. My poor mom was so stressed.”
What began with uncertainty soon grew into a genuine passion for the game.
Lisakhanya went on to represent her province from Grade 7, through to her final year of high school, developing not only as a cricketer, but as a young women.
Reflecting on her journey, she credits CATCH Trust for providing opportunities that extended well beyond the cricket field.
“I am grateful for the opportunities I’ve had with CATCH Trust by my side, supporting me not only in cricket but beyond the game as well.”
That support helped shape her confidence, resilience and belief that bigger opportunities were possible. One of those unforgettable opportunities came a month back, when Lisa was selected to tour the United Kingdom with CATCH Trust. “When I heard I was selected and we were going to the United Kingdom, I was so excited. At the same time, I couldn’t quite believe it until we actually landed.”
Each day brought new experiences, new friendships and unforgettable memories.
“After longs days of exploring, playing cricket and scoring runs, I would go to sleep and it would finally sink in that I was actually doing all of this in the UK. That feeling was truly amazing.”
The tour became far more than an overseas cricket experience, it became a reminder of what is possible when talent is matched with opportnity.
Every cricket journey teaches valuable lessons, and for Lisa, gratitude sits at the heart of hers.
“One of the biggest things I’ve learned through this journey is to always be grateful, to work hard and enjoy every moment along the way.”
Looking ahead, Lisakhanya is excited about the future of women’s cricket and the opportunities available to young girls entering the game today. Her message to the next generation, “You are now part of women’s cricket that is more competitive than ever before, take it in and grab every opportunity that comes your way.”
The journey of Lisa demonstrates the power of investing in girls through sport. From a curious primary school learner watching her brother practice, to representing CATCH Trust in the United Kingdom, her journey is proof that with opportunity, support and determination, dreams can become a reality.
As we continue to celebrate Women’s Month, we honour Lisa and every young women who continues to inspire the next generation to step onto the field with confidence, courage and ambition.
