It almost felt like it was destined to be David Bedingham being part of the South African cricket team that made history by becoming the first SA team to win a World Championship…breaking a 27-year drought.
Throughout his career as a cricketer, the former Maties cricketer and Sportsman of the Year (2019) had to overcome obstacles, make big decisions – sometimes unpopular – and be more patient than the usual professional sportsperson.
Walking around the holy grail of cricket fields – Lord’s – as a World Champion marked an unprecedented moment for the Wynberg Boys’ High old-boy.
“It was amazing! It was special to do it for all the special people in our changing room, and having a lot of friends and family at the ground celebrating with us was truly special and something I’ll never forget!” said David in the days after making South African cricket history.
David came to Maties Cricket as a school’s cricket prodigy, and the expectations for and from him were high. He represented the South African Under-19 side in 2013. In December 2016, Bedders – as he is known among his teammates – was in a horrific car accident. He broke his jaw and femur. During this time, David came to the realisation that cricket is just a sport, and he should play for the enjoyment of it.
David was sidelined for more than a year, and even when he returned to play, he was still limping slightly. He made his return to the cricket field in January 2018. Six years later, David realised his dream of playing for his country. His Protea debut was at Centurion against India in December. A week later, he played at Newlands in front of his family and friends.
Being 29 at that stage, he was older than most players when they first played for their country. However, the legendary Australian Michael Hussey, like David, first gained a lot of first-class experience before he was called up for international duty. And this is probably one of the factors that count most in David’s favour. This left-handed batsman is not a rookie.
“I’m a firm believer in the saying that what doesn’t break you, will make you stronger. All the setbacks have ultimately made me a stronger person, and that leads to being a stronger cricketer.”
After four years at Maties, David played first-class cricket in the Western Province before making one of the biggest decisions of his life.
“My career highlight before the Proteas was definitely moving to Durham and starting a career there. Although many people frowned upon this, it turned out to be the best thing I ever did.”
His second year at Durham was one for the record books. He struck a career-best unbeaten 180 runs against Nottinghamshire at Trent Bridge in the opening match of the season and, two games later, registered Durham’s second-highest Championship score in their history with 257 against Derbyshire.
David has played 15 test matches thus far for his country, with the highest score of 110.
“I will keep on taking my career one game at a time, trying to be the best version of myself and making myself and my family proud.”
A lot has happened since leaving Maties, but the memories will be there forever.
“I’ve grown up a lot more since I was there, but Maties was amazing for me. Making all those friends and settling into a routine made me love cricket again, and I’m truly grateful for all those moments at Maties!”
