Sat Oct 12 13:40:00 UTC 2024: ## South African Wicketkeeper Jafta Opens Up About Battle With Alcoholism
**Johannesburg, South Africa** – South African wicketkeeper Sinalo Jafta has revealed a harrowing struggle with alcoholism that threatened to derail her cricketing career. The 29-year-old, currently playing in the Women’s T20 World Cup, admitted that her addiction spiraled after she first started drinking at Northwest University in Potchefstroom. The problem became so severe that Jafta has no recollection of participating in the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games.
“Life changed for me after I was dropped from the national team in 2017,” Jafta told the ICC. “I returned in 2019, but I had lost my ambition and motivation.”
The turning point came in 2022 when, with the support of former Proteas coach Hilton Moreeng and team doctor Tshegofatso Gaetsewe, Jafta entered a rehabilitation facility in KwaZulu-Natal Midlands.
“I entered rehab and that humbled me, but I still didn’t admit that I was an alcoholic,” Jafta said. “At that point, I realized that if I lose my cricket career, so be it. It was my life that I was trying to get back.”
Jafta revealed that she faced harsh criticism and rejection at the rehab center, with people calling her “arrogant, entitled and selfish.” Online trolls and body-shaming further contributed to her struggles.
“I think alcohol was killing me at that point,” Jafta admitted. “It was what it took. I was arrogant, selfish, and very entitled. I will admit that.”
Despite the challenges, Jafta has persevered and made a triumphant return to the national team. Her story serves as a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of seeking help in times of need.
First Piper 