Makhanya grew up in the township of Verulam, about 30 kilometres outside Durban, and had to travel more than 60km to get to school daily. Sibz as his affectionately known, is a cultured batting all-rounder.
A measured right handed batsman and gentle medium base bowler with immense leadership potential. He lead South Africa U19 on its tour to England in 2014 and was part of Proteas' victorious U19 World Cup winning squad.