‘Busta’ Rapoo: Leading the Lions in the Hollywoodbets Pro Series with passion

A lively presence within the DP World Lions setup, captain and spinner Kgomotso Rapoo continues to lead from the front, staying true to the fundamentals as she aims to guide her team to success in the Hollywoodbets Pro Series.

The 22-year-old has been one of the standout performers in the 2024/25 season, claiming 21 wickets in 14 matches across the Hollywoodbets Pro 50 and Pro 20 competitions for her hometown side. Her impressive leg spin, combined with her leadership, has been instrumental in the Lions’ campaign.

Born on 16 May 2002, Rapoo, affectionately known as ‘Busta’, was raised in Soweto alongside her two older sisters and younger brother by her single mother, whom she highlights as a pillar of support during her childhood.

“Growing up was tough, but my mother made it easier by being supportive in every activity I wanted to do or play as a kid. The name 'Busta' was given to me by a primary school friend because I made her laugh all the time," she explained.

If it wasn’t for another key influence at Molalatladi Primary School and Soweto Cricket Club, Lions cricket and the women’s game in South Africa would have lost out on having the rising talent in their ranks.

“My Grade R teacher introduced me to cricket, but my heart was initially set on football, drama, and dance,” Rapoo noted.

“My coach, however, kept pushing me to attend training because they saw talent in me. Then there was a KFC Mini-Cricket and Proteas tournament coming up, so I decided to go, and I ended up winning the Player of the Tournament award. At that moment, I thought, 'You know what, I’m going to stick with this,' and that’s when I fell in love with the game."

SENIOR DEBUT

Encouraged by that early success in 2013, along with the guidance of Mr Vezi Phetheni and Coach Tholang Hlalele, Rapoo progressed through the Lions' development structures, eventually making her senior provincial debut in the 2019/20 season.

The charismatic spinner has gone on to represent the Lions in more than 80 matches across both the One-Day and T20 formats, amassing 91 wickets. In September 2023, Rapoo was named the Lions captain across all formats, receiving the nod at just 21 years old to mark a pivotal moment in her burgeoning career.

"When I was appointed as the new captain in 2023, my goal was to inspire my team to achieve great things, have a clear vision of the future, and make a positive impact in our community.

"Leading the team means a lot to me because I have always wanted to gain more knowledge in cricket from experienced players. Sharing their views and implementing them in game situations has helped me as an individual, and in turn, has inspired my team to work together and strive for success."

Now firmly focused on the current campaign, Rapoo is among the top wicket-takers in domestic cricket and remains determined to help the Lions challenge for silverware in the Pro 50 competition.

"My key to performance has always been to keep things simple and basic. I respect every player on the field, which helps me enjoy the game without worrying about unnecessary distractions.

“Being second on the log is both scary and a privilege. Last season, we finished second at the end of the campaign, and to find ourselves in the same position again makes it even more daunting. However, with only two matches left, I am hopeful we can continue fighting for the title, with everyone learning a thing or two from each other,” she concluded.