Mashishi’s Resurgence Powers Titans to Strong Finish

(The Post News)– Despite a slow start in the Hollywoodbets Pro Series, where the Fidelity Titans managed just one win in both formats during the first half, off-spinner Paulinah Mashishi played a pivotal role in the team’s resurgence. With three One-Day and five T20 victories, the Titans secured a commendable fourth-place finish in both competitions.

Mashishi, named the Titans’ Player of the Year last season, concluded the 2024/25 campaign with 22 wickets across both formats—seven short of her previous season’s tally of 29. Reflecting on the season, she credited renewed confidence for the turnaround.

“We struggled in the first half, unable to string together consistent performances. Sometimes the batting let us down; other times, the bowling. But the second half was a complete shift—we delivered in both areas,” she said. “At first, I wasn’t happy with my performances, but things changed significantly later in the season. Sometimes, having just a few people believe in you makes all the difference.”

Mashishi’s cricketing journey began in primary school through KFC Mini-Cricket. She later joined Hammanskraal Cricket Club, receiving structured coaching before making her senior Titans debut at just 14. Now 26, she boasts an impressive domestic career with 158 wickets in List A and T20 cricket combined.

Balancing academics and sport, she continued honing her skills in boys’ leagues at Prestige College before studying at Tshwane University of Technology. She acknowledges her mentors from the MAD Leadership Foundation and Phindile Jonas for shaping her career.

With aspirations of national selection and competing in global leagues like the Women’s IPL and Big Bash, Mashishi remains focused on physical conditioning and mental preparation. “Domestic cricket is crucial for development. Competing against Proteas players has sharpened my game, and I’m determined to earn my place on the national team.”