Memorable exploits on the cricket pitch can take many forms. A sublimely timed cover drive to bring up a century in the most trying of circumstances, a catch that defies the laws of physics, or an over bowled with such venom and resolve that the opposition is unable to secure the winning runs.
Wihan Lubbe has scored many valuable runs and has taken many treasured wickets, but it is his leadership during the North-West University’s (NWU’s) superlative 2017 season that will be remembered more than anything else. Lubbe, as captain, led from the front.
His side kicked off their season by winning the Varsity Cricket tournament on home soil. Best university cricket side in South Africa – check. His side then went on to represent South Africa at the Red Bull Campus Cricket tournament in Sri Lanka, where they trampled Australia, India, Pakistan and Bangladesh en route to the final. The host nation never stood a chance. Best university cricket side in the world – check.
Fast forward to 2021, and the 28-year-old has been called up for the Proteas T20 squad that will face Pakistan in the Republic. Also in the squad is Lubbe’s partner in crime at the NWU, Janneman Malan. Malan and Lubbe formed a formidable opening partnership during their glory days in Potchefstroom, although Malan beat his former captain to a spot in the national side.
Lubbe made his List A debut for the North West Dragons against the Free State in 2012 against future Proteas Rilee Rossouw and Duanne Olivier. Current Proteas stalwart Rassie van der Dussen and former Proteas bowler Garnett Kruger were also in the Dragons side. Lubbe bowled two overs for nine runs and did not get a chance to wield the willow.
He made his first-class debut for the Dragons the following year and has since gone on to play 46 first-class games, 53 List A games and 48 T20s. The left-handed batsman and right-arm off-break bowler averages 33,87, 26,80 and 21,97 with the bat in the respective codes, and 40,19, 38,13 and 30,56 with the ball.
He is now a fully-fledged Protea having made his debut against Pakistan in the recent T20 series against Pakistan.
