Ayabonga Khaka: Playing for the badge and living the dream

After making her Proteas Women's debut more than 12 years ago, Ayabonga Khaka’s journey has not only been one of world-class fast bowling ability but also of unwavering passion for representing South Africa and doing her family proud.

Khaka, affectionately known as Aya, first donned the Green and Gold in September 2012 at the age of 20 and over the years she has proven herself as a reliable and calming figure in the Proteas Women's camp. In her 106 one-day internationals (ODI), she has taken 131 wickets at an economy rate of 4.20 with best figures of five for 26 that she produced against the West Indies in January 2022.

In 2024, the Middledrift-born seamer made history as the first black African woman and only the third Black African cricketer to achieve a century of matches in the 50-over format.

Proteas Women's head coach Mandla Mashimbyi praised Khaka for her impressive career. “Aya has been a stalwart for the longest time. Twelve years of international cricket. Wow, it’s a huge achievement.”

Despite her numerous accomplishments, her humility and resilience are what truly stand out to those who work with her. “It will be hard to get something out of her that would suggest that she’s excited about the feat, but I do know that she cares about the badge,” Mashimbyi noted.

HUMBLE MENTOR

Reflecting on her career, Khaka acknowledges the support she has received throughout the years.

“My family has been there for me, my friends, and my community as well. Without them, I would not have been here,” the 32-year-old said.

As a player, Khaka has been a key figure in South Africa's bowling attack, but her influence extends beyond the field. Khaka’s role as a mentor is vital for the Proteas Women's group, especially as more young players make their way into the national fold. Her experience and tranquil demeanour are invaluable assets that help nurture the next generation of South African cricketers.

"Aya is the type of player who recognises those opportunities. She’s someone who understands the significance of her role, not just as a player but as a mentor to those coming through,” Mashimbyi explained.

For aspiring young cricketers, particularly those from under-resourced communities, Khaka offers a powerful message: “It doesn’t matter where you come from, it’s all about your goals and what you want to achieve. Everything is possible.”

Though she doesn’t single out specific career highlights, her approach to cricket is grounded in discipline and love for the game. “I just enjoy putting the jersey on. I know there are a lot of people who want to be in my shoes. To be honest, when I'm done, I'll look down and think about those moments. For now, I'm just enjoying the moments and doing it for the country.”

Next up for Khaka and the Proteas Women will be the ODI Tri-Series against India and hosts Sri Lanka in Colombo from 27 April - 11 May.

Proteas Women Squad – ODI Tri-Series

Laura Wolvaardt (Captain) (Fidelity Titans), Tazmin Brits (DP World Lions), Nadine de Klerk (World Sports Betting Western Province), Annerie Dercksen (Six Gun Grill Garden Route Badgers), Lara Goodall (World Sports Betting Western Province), Sinalo Jafta (DP World Lions), Ayabonga Khaka (DP World Lions), Masabata Klaas (Fidelity Titans), Suné Luus (Fidelity Titans), *Karabo Meso (DP World Lions), Nonkululeko Mlaba (Hollywoodbets Dolphins), *Seshnie Naidu (Hollywoodbets Dolphins), Nondumiso Shangase (Hollywoodbets Dolphins), *Miané Smit (Knights) and Chloé Tryon (DP World Lions)

*Uncapped

Fixtures – ODI Tri-Series

Sunday, 27 April @ 06h30 SAST – 1st ODI – Sri Lanka v India (R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium, Colombo)

Tuesday, 29 April @ 06h30 SAST – 2nd ODI: India v South Africa (R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium, Colombo)

Friday, 02 May @ 06h30 SAST – 3rd ODI: Sri Lanka v South Africa (R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium, Colombo)

Sunday, 04 May @ 06h30 SAST – 4th ODI: Sri Lanka v India (R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium, Colombo)

Wednesday, 07 May @ 06h30 SAST – 5th ODI: South Africa v India (R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium, Colombo)

Friday, 09 May @ 06h30 SAST – 6th ODI: Sri Lanka v South Africa (R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium, Colombo)

Sunday, 11 May @ 06h30 SAST – Final: 1st Place v 2nd Place (R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium, Colombo)