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centre of gravity and ease with which he
sweeps maximums, seemingly at will.
“I would have loved to have played hockey
professionally,” he said.
“A lot of guys I played with in school
in South Africa have been away to the
Olympics, Commonwealth Game and
World Cups. It’s great to see them do so
well, but I’m happy doing what I do.”
But, given that his father tried his utmost
to dissuade Riki from going into cricket,
what of the future generations of the
Wessels family?
“I’ll be pushing them towards tennis or
golf, there’s a bit more of a retirement
package there for me if they do well,” he
laughs.
“It’s up to them, and whatever they choose
to do. If they choose to become a doctor or
lawyer, or if they choose a sport.You have
to respect and support them with that.”
It’s clear to see thatWessels’ family
influence has shaped his life and career
immeasurably.The work ethic instilled
by his father and his personal desire to
make Kepler proud look to be two of the
strongest drivers behind his development.
However, with tongue firmly in cheek, he
says he has no plans to repay them any
time soon.
“My parents got me on Christmas Eve so
as far as I’m concerned I never owe them
another Christmas present, nothing can be
as good as that first one.”
RUNS TO DATE IN 2014