Tazmin Brits has a remarkable journey that transcends mere words. Originally excelling in javelin throwing with accolades at the World Junior Championships and close to qualifying for the Olympics, she faced a life-altering accident. Now a prominent figure in international cricket, Brits, approaching 29, bears a tattoo of the Olympic rings on her arm as a constant reminder of her near-fatal experiences and triumphant battles.
Back in 2011, Brits attained the Olympic qualification standard for the London 2012 Games. However, a moment’s distraction while checking her phone during a celebratory outing led to a severe car crash that left her fighting for her life. Enduring multiple fractures, a burst bladder, and internal bleeding, she spent weeks in the ICU and months in the hospital, followed by extensive rehabilitation. Against all odds, Brits persevered with the support of her family and returned to competitive sports, transitioning to cricket from javelin due to the accident.
Brits’ exceptional talent quickly garnered attention, propelling her to South Africa’s Emerging Players’ team without even representing her provincial side. Making her international debut against Bangladesh in May 2018, she has since appeared in 14 T20Is, establishing herself as a dependable asset for the national squad.
In 2025, Brits made a significant impact in cricket, notably surpassing India’s Smriti Mandhana for the most centuries in Women’s One Day Internationals in a single calendar year. Her standout performance against New Zealand in the Women’s World Cup showcased her ability to anchor the innings and contribute crucially to South Africa’s success in the tournament.
Describing her cricket journey as a “second opportunity,” Brits now aims to excel in the upcoming World Twenty20 and solidify her position as a formidable ODI cricketer for South Africa. Beyond her sporting ambitions, she aspires to advocate for road safety and raise awareness about the perils of distracted driving, drawing from her personal experience.
From a brush with death to becoming a standout player in the Women’s World Cup, Tazmin Brits’ narrative embodies resilience, bravery, and the transformative impact of second chances.