FORMER Proteas fast bowler Makhaya Ntini is still held in high esteem in cricket despite his decision to quit the sport at international level.

This was confirmed by his appointment as a Mini Cricket ambassador yesterday.

Ntini was appointed with former national teammate and 2010 ICC ODI Player of the Year AB de Villiers and last year's Cricket SA Women's Cricketer of the Year, Trisha Chetty. The announcement was made at the Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg.

Ntini and Chetty came through this cricket development programme and now the trio will be expected to promote the game.

"It is a dream come true to be appointed the ambassador of the Mini Cricket Programme. I will do my utmost to unearth raw talent and promote the sport in the rural areas," said Ntini, the country's second highest wicket-taker in Tests.

In his recent retirement speech Ntini indicated that he would like to impart his knowledge to the community.

CSA brand and corporate relations manager Kass Naidoo said: "The KFC Mini Cricket Programme forms an integral part of CSA's campaign."

KFC marketing director Lizanne Bartlett said the ambassadors will give a face to the programme. "The ambassadors' support will be invaluable in growing the programme and their personal stories of success will inspire the children to reach their dreams."