FORMER State President and Father of the Nation Nelson Mandela has sent Makhaya Ntini a personal note of congratulations on reaching the landmark of 100 Test matches for South Africa.

Mandela praised Ntini for his dedication and passion and for the role model he had been to the people of South Africa, especially the youth. The full text reads as follows:

“Dear Makhaya,

Hearty congratulations as you play your one hundredth cricket Test. What you have achieved goes beyond the number of matches you played; you have demonstrated, especially to the youth of our country, that everyone can rise above their circumstances and achieve success if they are dedicated to and passionate about what they do.

We are proud of you!

Sincerely

(signed) NR Mandela”

Ntini received the letter shortly before he went out to field on day three of the Castle Test match against England at SuperSport Park.

“I don’t want to get too emotional as I go out to play,” commented Ntini, who was deeply moved.

Ntini’s first spell was his best of the match as he conceded only 7 runs in 5 overs and claimed the prize wicket of England captain Andrew Strauss which may turn out to be even more valuable than that of Kevin Pietersen as the series unfolds.