It’s that magical time of year when the cricket calls take a back seat to jingle balls … and for Talita Wiegand, it’s a well-earned break.
Fresh off her return from the Indoor Cricket World Cup in Sri Lanka, SA Ladies Master captain Talita Wiegand is trading wickets for warm family moments and a slice (or three) of her family’s famous chocolate cake.
To date, she’s been the epitome of cricket queen goals, with a whopping five World Cups under her belt … Australia, Fourways, England, Cape Town, and now Sri Lanka. The cherry on top? Team SA snagged a podium finish this year, claiming third place. Not too shabby for a sport that still carries the stereotype of being a boys’ game.
But don’t let her calm, down-to-earth demeanour fool you. Talita believes she’s breaking barriers and paving the way for girls to shine in traditionally male-dominated sports. Such as, well, cricket.
‘It hasn’t been easy,’ she admits. ‘I’ve been shut down so many times because girls don’t play cricket. But that just made me work harder, to never be shut down again. I’m doing this for the next generation of girls. We can exist loudly, and we will.’
This passion for the underdog runs deep. Talita considers herself one, and she’s embraced every setback as a stepping stone to something better.
Her journey spans more than just cricket, though. She’s a sports all-rounder. From touch rugby to softball in New Zealand (a spur of the moment adventure), it’s safe to say that Talita’s adventurous spirit has led her to the farthest corners of sport … and self-discovery. Because when she plays, she plays hard. Whether it’s on club, provincial or international level.
‘My parents played competitive squash. So, when I was four-years-old, I received my first squash racket. I remember they actually had to saw the handle because it was too big for me. But I was adamant! And so, that’s where my love for anything active developed. It’s part of what makes me, me.’
Her cricket journey began almost by accident. Back in 2005, while on crutches no less, she went to support a friend’s game. The team was short a player and asked her to just stand on the court to fill the space … fast-forward to her being selected for the Provincial Mixed side shortly after. Fate, much?
Since then, she’s been unstoppable. Talita’s fave memory? Winning the Ladies Masters Indoor Cricket World Cup in 2016. And, being the most capped Ladies Masters Player in SA. Apart from the sport itself, leadership is like second nature to her. She’s been the team’s captain for three world cups in a row now. And her approach to leadership is as genuine as it gets. ‘Be human. Be honest. Be tough, but approachable.
‘The sport humbles you. You are not bigger than the game. There is always something to learn. The people I’ve met and relationships I’ve formed has also been a crucial part of the sport.’
When she’s not on the court, Talita’s in the classroom, guiding the next generation as an Afrikaans and Life Orientation teacher.
‘Sport at this level teaches you life skills and perspectives that I just love sharing with my learners,’ And while her cricket dreams are self-funded – indoor cricket remains an amateur sport – she’s quick to add that every sacrifice has been totally worth it.
At home, Talita is all about balance. Whether she’s cracking jokes, indulging in her caffeine addiction, or unwinding with music (nothing beats the national anthem at a World Cup), she’s a grounded, joyful soul. She’s also a bassist and a sound engineer. And when it comes to water, she’s in her element … swimming, kayaking, or simply soaking up the peace it brings.
This Christmas, Talita’s agenda is refreshingly simple. Spending time with family. Making memories. And indulging in some well-deserved downtime. She’s recharging her batteries with an eye on the future … if her body allows, she’s already dreaming of the 2027 World Cup.
‘But, until then, I am perfectly happy. I’m also content just laughing on my own. More often than not laughing at myself. I genuinely enjoy being happy … and I’ll always stay true to myself,’
For now, she’s content spreading cheer, inspiring the next generation, and living her truth. Because whether on or off the court, she’s proof that joy, grit, and a little chocolate cake can go a long way.
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Talita’s easy-peasy holiday fave
If you’re anything like the Wiegand’s you just love a sweet treat, especially during the festive season. It’s the perfect dessert for any meal. It’s so moist and chocolaty, you’ll want to dig right in. Quick, easy, and so delish.
You’ll need: 1/2 cup oil; 1/2 cup water; 1 cup cake flour; 1 tsp baking powder; 3/4 cup sugar; 1/4 cup cocoa; 3 eggs.
For the syrup: 1 cup sugar; 1 can Ideal milk; 1 slab nutty chocolate
To make: Pre-heat oven to 180°C.
Mix the oil, water, egg yolks and sugar together. Then mix dry ingredients thoroughly.
Beat the egg white stiffly and add everything into one large bowl. Pour into greased cake pan and bake for about 20 minutes.
For the syrup, heat the sugar and ¾ cup Ideal milk until melted and pour over the hot cake. Then, melt the chocolate cubes and remaining can of Ideal milk and pour over the cake.
Best served with loved ones.
Compiled by: ALANICKA LOTRIET.
