Some top honours go to Zakithi Nene, Nonkululeko Mlaba and Precious Mthembu at the KZN Sports Awards, recognising standout performances in athletics, cricket and coaching.
Durban, South Africa (26 April 2026) – The spotlight was firmly on KwaZulu-Natal’s sporting excellence, as some of the province’s top athletes and coaches were recognised at the KZN Sport Awards.
From record-breaking performances on the track to consistent impact on the international cricket stage and leadership on the sidelines, this year’s winners reflected the depth of talent coming out of the province.
Among those honoured was Zakithi Nene, who walked away with the Sportsman of the Year award after a standout season in athletics. Nene has been in top form, clocking an impressive 43.76 seconds in the 400m at the Kip Keino Classic in Nairobi. This is one of the fastest times in the world in 2025 and among the quickest ever by a South African. His consistency also showed on the international circuit, with podium finishes at several Diamond League meetings.
On the cricket field, Nonkululeko Mlaba continued her dominance, adding another Sportswoman of the Year title to her growing list of accolades. Mlaba’s latest recognition comes after playing a key role in South Africa’s run to the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup final, while maintaining strong international rankings as a left-arm spinner.
Off the field, coaching excellence was also celebrated, with Precious Mthembu named Coach of the Year for the second time. A former national netball player with 97 caps, Mthembu has built a reputation for her dedication to developing young talent, particularly within the university space, where she continues to shape the next generation of athletes.
Together, the trio’s achievements highlight the range of talent in KwaZulu-Natal. More than just a night of awards, the event served as a reminder of the talent and commitment behind every performance, and the people driving sport forward in the province.
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