Paulina Mashishi is ready for the next challenge

Through her rise up the ranks, Mashishi often walked 5 kms from her township just to get some practice in. Consistent performances in the age-group tournaments earned her a place in the senior provincial squad.

"Being part of the Northerns Ladies team means a great deal to me because it tells me that, irrespective of difficult circumstances, one does not have to quit but to hold on. It also tells me that my challenges and difficulties should not define who I am," the Hamanskraal product said.

Mashishi, who was briefly part of the setup last season, said she is most excited to learn from the likes of Mignon du Preez and Sune Luus, two of the squad's most experienced players. Having learnt a great deal through her experiences at the lower rungs, Mashishi is further looking forward to fine-tuning her skills.

"I am part of one of the best, talented, hardworking and dedicated group of ladies in the city of Pretoria and being in that squad means that I’m good enough to compete against other best groups of ladies from other provinces. I am really looking forward to working with everyone, but especially Mignon du Preez and Sune Luus, who are amazing players that I learn from," she said.

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One of the more miserly bowlers in the Northerns set-up, Mashishi's bowling stood out through much of last season. She wants to build on that form, and continue to pick wickets whenever she is presented with an opportunity.

"My goal is to put an extra effort into my fitness, and to make sure I stay on top of my game. I also want to make it to the national development squad," she said of her goals for the upcoming campaign.​

Mashishi looks up to Nomzamo Mbatha, an African actress, and the spinner hopes to write her own inspirational tale on the field and motivate the next generation. While Mashishi knows that being selected in the squad is just one step in the right direction, she is keen on using the platform to showcase her talent and cement a spot in the final squad. Hard work is not knew to her and she is more than raring to go.

"The squad is well balanced and consists of young, talented and hardworking players who will bring something new to the team in terms of their skills. It has a very good blend of experience and cultures, and I can't wait to be a part of it," she said with relish."