Rising Eagle JC Balt eyes cricket glory

At just 21 years old, JC Balt is making his mark in Namibian cricket, with a debut for the national side and dreams of representing his country at a World Cup.Balt, who grew up in Windhoek and attended Windhoek Afrikaanse Privaatskool (WAP), credits his school for laying the foundations of his success.“WAP taught me leadership and discipline. It helped me not just with cricket, but with who I am as a person,” he said.His cricket journey began early, fuelled by a strong sports culture at school. One memory stands out: the combined cricket and rugby farewell function in his matric year.“All the memories of twelve years of sport came together that day with friends and family,” Balt recalled.Balt worked his way up through the ranks, representing Wanderers and WHS Old Boys, before he started sporting the Eagles jersey. Making his international debut in Oman was a moment he will never forget.“I had worked so long for that moment. Finally, I was there.”Balt’s rise has been supported by sponsorships and mentoring, particularly from his alma mater, WAP and coach Riaan Minnie.“The backing from WAP means a lot. It gives you confidence knowing someone believes in you,” he said.“Coach Minnie helped me on and off the field. He made a big impact on my career.”HurdlesDespite suffering a few injuries along the way, Balt remains focused and determined.“Injuries never made me doubt. They just made me want to come back stronger,” he said.Balt believes maintaining a healthy balance between sport and life off the field is critical. Away from cricket, he enjoys farming, fishing and hunting.“You have to find something outside of sport. If you can’t play, it can get very tough.”Ahead of every match, Balt keeps his routine simple. “I wake up, focus on the important things, and try to keep negative thoughts away."For Balt, team success outweighs personal milestones. “You can perform individually, but if the team loses, it doesn’t mean much at the end of the day.”Looking ahead, Balt is excited about the opportunities Namibia’s new FNB Cricket Stadium will offer local players.“It’s world-class. Hard to believe it’s happening here,” he said.The futureIn five years, Balt hopes to still be wearing the Namibian jersey and to play a World Cup match on home turf. “That would be a dream come true.”His message to young sportspeople is clear: “Work harder than anyone else. Keep believing. You’re closer to your goals than you think.”Balt’s ultimate goal is to leave a lasting impact wherever he plays. “I want to leave every place better than I found it and inspire others to do the same.”Balt is set on building a legacy not only for himself but for all young and aspiring cricket players. Using hard work, dedication and his love for his team and his country, this young star has a bright path ahead of him.

Rising Eagle JC Balt eyes cricket glory

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Namibian Sun 2025-09-11

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Rising Eagle JC Balt eyes cricket glory

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Namibian Sun 2025-09-11

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