A family's labour of love

AT JUST two years old, Semal Pillay was already mimicking cricket shots in his grandparents' passageway with a plastic bat.

His grandad Vasudeva Chinswami Pillay bowled gentle underarm deliveries while the family watched from the doorway of their Newlands home, unaware that Semal was destined for the national stage.

His remarkable journey, shaped by three generations of family support and unwavering discipline, offers valuable lessons for aspiring athletes across South Africa.

Today, Semal, 18, of Greenwood Park, stands tall as one of KwaZulu-Natal’s most promising young cricketers.

The former Durban High School (DHS) pupil and First XI captain, now dons the colours of the Hollywoodbets Dolphins, living a dream that began in that humble passageway.

“I learnt from my grandad that cricket was as much about character as it is about skill. My dad always pushed me to train harder and think smarter while my mum made sure I never neglected my studies. Their combined influence taught me to play with heart and balance,” said Semal.

A proud Satish Pillay smiled as he recalled the first time he realised his son’s ‘extraordinary’ gift.

“We saw this gift from the moment Semal picked up a bat at just two-years- old. Even then, he not swinging the bat randomly. He tried to play proper shots,” said Pillay.

However, Semal’s talent was only confirmed when he was eight-years-old and played against the Tuks Academy’s U11 team.

He had opened the batting, and scored an unbeaten 112.

That’s when we knew he was something special,” said a proud Pillay.

He said it was that moment that transformed their family’s pastime into a purpose.

“My dad played a pivotal role in laying the foundation. He spent countless hours bowling to Semal in the passage, teaching him the basics and encouraging him with every ball. As parents, we did everything we could from driving him to practice, investing in coaching, and making sure he had the support he needed,” added Pillay.

He said those early sacrifices included many early mornings, long drives, juggling work schedules, and constant encouragement through wins and losses.

“But we embraced it all as we watched Semal grow and stay committed to the game. Even during setbacks, we reminded him to stay humble and keep learning,” said Pillay.

Discipline, character, and balance

From Glenwood Prep to DHS, Semal’s talent flourished under the guidance of dedicated coaches like Sahil Bissoon, Zain Bux, and Fabian Lazarus.

By 16, he was already attending the Cricket SA National U17 camps, showing the poise and precision that defined his batting style.

In matric, he captained the DHS First XI, balancing cricket, hockey, and academics with discipline, said Pillay.

He credits Semal’s balance to a grounded upbringing.

“We always emphasised humility and hard work. No matter how well he performed, we remind him there was always room to grow. Family dinners, time with his sister, and laughter with his mum kept him grounded,” said Pillay.

“He has also learned to channel pressure into performance. We always told him that pressure was a privilege. It meant people believe in you.”

Reaching the national stage

Semal’s breakout moment came when he was selected for the South African U19 team, after finishing as the second-highest run-scorer at Cubs Week.

“Hearing my name called for SA U19 was surreal. It showed that my hard work and consistency paid off,” said Semal.

His parents recalled the moment vividly.

“We were waiting for his call after the function. Then the news broke on WhatsApp — Semal had made the team! We didn’t sleep that night. Calls and messages of congratulations poured in. We were overwhelmed with joy,” said Pillay.

Now, as part of the Hollywoodbets Dolphins squad, Semal continues to learn and grow among professionals he has long admired.

“My teammates and the coaching staff are my mentors. The Hollywoodbets Dolphins coach Quinton Friend and CEO Heinrich Strydom have also been very supportive. I would like to thank them for giving me my debut - it’s a privilege.”

His debut where he shared the bowling attack with Keshav Maharaj, the world’s top ODI bowler,  remains one of his most cherished memories.

Beyond the boundary

Even with his sporting commitments, Semal remains focused on education, pursuing a Bachelor of social science degree at the University of KwaZulu-Natal.

“Education is the foundation for long-term success. Seeing him study while playing professional cricket reflects his maturity and discipline,” said his father.

His mother, Yashica Pillay said: “Your mind is your greatest asset.”

Looking ahead, the family hopes he continues to climb the ranks.

“We hope he grows with the Dolphins, plays in the Betway T20, and one day represents South Africa - maybe even the IPL,” said Pillay.

“To other parents, support your children wholeheartedly, but teach them balance and discipline. Celebrate their wins, guide them through losses, and remind them that who they are off the field matters just as much,” said the proud parents.

Semal’s message to other young dreamers is simple but powerful: “Work hard, stay grounded, and believe in yourself. Coming from a smaller community doesn’t limit your potential — it just means your journey might be different.”

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