Athletes switching events is not new in world sports. There are precedents in cricket too. Not long ago, Riley Norton played in the Under-19 World Cup in the South African jersey last year. The player who represented the cricket team is now captaining the country’s youth rugby team. He is playing in the 2025 Rugby World Cup.
Norton made his debut for the South African Under-19 team in a tri-nation series at home against the youth cricket teams of India and Afghanistan. The Proteas then hosted the 2024 Youth World Cup. All-rounder Riley Norton played for the hosts South Africa, who were eliminated in the semi-finals. While his teammates Luan-Dre Pretorius and Kenna Mafaka made their national debuts, Norton is on a different path.
In the last Youth World Cup, Norton took 11 wickets at an average of 18.36. Only one Proteas bowler took more wickets (of course, Mafaka’s 21 wickets was the highest in the tournament). Norton also got a chance to bat in three matches, where he averaged 50. The all-rounder was 18 during the World Cup. However, Norton did not play for the Under-19s or any other professional domestic league afterwards. It is understood that he has now left cricket and is now focusing on playing rugby.
Not only has the 19-year-old chosen rugby, he will also lead South Africa at the Youth Championship in Italy, where Norton’s team has also secured the final of the rugby tournament. This marks the third consecutive time South Africa have reached the final of the competition (champions in 2012 and runners-up in 2014). South Africa are a dominant force in rugby, having reached the top four 13 times.
South Africa defeated Australia 73-17, defending champions England 32-22 and Scotland 73-14 in this year’s Under-20 Rugby Championship. Then, they defeated Argentina 48-24 in the semi-finals to secure a place in the final. The Proteas will face New Zealand in the title-deciding match on July 20.
There have been precedents of leaving international cricket to join the international rugby team before. But representing your country in two World Cups is a rare occurrence. Namibia’s Rudy van Vuuren played in both the 2003 World Cup Cricket and Rugby World Cup. He also played in the 1999 Rugby World Cup. South Africa’s Riley Norton also has that opportunity.
FAQ
Who is Riley Norton?
Riley Norton is a young South African athlete who initially made his mark in cricket but later switched to rugby, where he now captains the national youth team.
What was Riley Norton’s background in cricket?
Riley Norton represented South Africa in the Under-19 Cricket World Cup, showcasing his talent as a promising young cricketer.
What role does he play in rugby now?
Norton is the captain of South Africa’s youth rugby team, participating in the 2025 Rugby World Cup.
Why is his switch considered remarkable?
It’s rare for an athlete to reach high levels in two different sports. Norton’s transition from international cricket to captaining a rugby team highlights his exceptional athletic ability and adaptability.
When did he make the switch from cricket to rugby?
Norton made the switch shortly after his appearance in the Under-19 Cricket World Cup, focusing fully on rugby within a year.
