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“I was a bit nervous when I reached 99. It was a case of sweaty palms and to crown it all when I scored my 100, I edged the ball which could easily have been caught. I’m however relieved to have overcome this mental barrier. When I reached 50 I gained more confidence from there on. Now I must build on this performance. I know it's hard work but I’m pretty confident,” said Joseph.

He was part of the victorious Western Province team who won the Khaya Majola week title in December following a five wicket win over the Lions in the final of the weeklong tournament at the Bishops grounds.

He was, however, let down when a mix-up with his age cost him a place in the SA Schools team.

“Yes, it was disappointing but being selected for the SA Colts team did somewhat make up for the disappointment. It has made me determined to work harder to become a successful professional player,” said Joseph. He is presently studying business at the Newlands campus of Varsity College.

Sean Hendrieck, Rondebosch’s coach, lauded Joseph’s exploits in the match along with his other young upstarts in the side. “Joseph is a very talented player and I think if he works hard he certainly has a bright future for him,” said Hendrieck.

According to Hendrieck, Joseph is one of several young talented players whom he has roped in this season as part of his rebuilding process.

“I guess it would be quite fair to ask why we are not in the running to defend our title. The answer is quite simple. We lost several experienced players at the end of last season. You take Lenert van Wyk (35) out of the team then our average age is 22 years in the team. We are sitting in fifth spot and today's win, then I think we are doing pretty good,” said Hendrieck.

23:T6e9, “I was a bit nervous when I reached 99. It was a case of sweaty palms and to crown it all when I scored my 100, I edged the ball which could easily have been caught. I’m however relieved to have over

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Big-hitting teenager impresses with maiden century