Mathole return outshines Diteemane
Kabelo Boranabi | Saturday December 16, 2023 07:34
His initial foray into local competitions occurred over a decade ago as a teenager at the Selebi-Phikwe Open Under-18 in 2012.
Throughout the years, Mathole consistently posed a formidable challenge whenever he ventured across the northern border, engaging in captivating final matches with legends of the game, including Bonolo Mabote and Thobo Matlhatsi.
In the past weekend, Mathole re-entered the Botswana competitive scene after a five-year absence. He formed part of a formidable South African team alongside defending champion Chetan Nathoo and regional champion Luke Abrahams.
The local contingent included players such as Bakang Maloka, Boago Malobela, and Thapelo Molefi. Competition intensified with the inclusion of a Zambian team, making it a three-country showdown in this year's edition of the International Open.
In a gripping final match against title holder Nathoo, Mathole initially faced a 2-0 deficit in the first two sets. However, he exhibited remarkable resilience and determination, clinching the championship with a 4-2 victory over Nathoo. Unfortunately, the local contingent faltered, unable to progress beyond the quarterfinals.
Zambia's Choolwe Hamalabo and Abrahams secured bronze medal positions. South Africa's dominance extended to the women's category. Danisha Patel showcased dominance throughout the tournament, defending the title she claimed in 2022.
In the final clash against compatriot Layla Edwards, Patel secured a convincing 4-0 triumph, underscoring her skill and consistency on the table. Local top-ranked players Tshepiso Rebatenne of Nhabe TTC and Constance Kuswani of BDF TTC secured bronze medals after succumbing in the semi finals to the formidable South African pair.
The two players emerged as the top-performing locals in the senior section of the tournament. The winners received a prize of P6,000 in both the men's and women's categories, while silver medallists earned P4,000. Semi finalists were awarded P2,000, and quarterfinalists received P1,000 each.