Rautenbach, WBPHS' very own cricket sensation

Walvisbay Private School

Marisa Burger


Francois Rautenbach, a matric learner at WBPHS, was selected to play for the Namibian U/19 in the 2016 edition of the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup. During the 20-day tournament held in Bangladesh between 27 January and 14 February, 48 matches were played between16 teams across eight venues.


The Namibian team played two warm-up matches, three group matches and
5 knockout matches. Namibia's best game was against South Africa.
Rautenbachs' best games were against England in the warm-up rounds and Nepal in the 7th and 8th place play-offs. Rautenbach said that they were 110-5 after 33 overs. With 12 overs remaining he and one of his team mates made a crucial 99 run partnership off 66 balls.


For Rautenbach, the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup was a completely different experience. He says that it was remarkable: the different traditions, foods and people. Francois' parents flew all the way to Bangladesh to support him during this turning point in his sport career. Rautenbach says his father is his greatest supporter. He is there for every game and always proud of him no matter what happens.


Everyone has a role model to whom they look up to for encouragement. Ever since he can remember, his has been AB de Villiers, the world's best cricket player. Even though it is his last school year, Rautenbach still wants to play cricket next year and study at the same time; as cricket is his favourite sport.


Some words of motivation from Francios Rautenbach: “Hard work pays off. Our fitness coach always tells us that in life, what you invest you will receive.”


We are proud that Francois Rautenbach not only kept Namibia's name high but our school's as well. On behalf of WBPHS we want to congratulate Francois Rautenbach on his achievements and wish him all the best for the future.