The production line of quality cricketers at the the North West University Cricket Club seems to never end. This is clearly visible in the currently ongoing Msanzi Super League (MSL) T20 competiton. Some of the club’s top former talents are making the grade at this level for their respective teams against top local and international players.
Wihan Lubbe
Wihan Lubbe has been one of the most promising thus far with 163 runs at an average of 32.5 with a highest score of 83 for the Durban Heat. Lubbe, a former NWU Varsity Cricket winning captain, has showcased his big hitting, especially over cow corner and deep square leg on the on side.
Lubbe has smashed 19 fours and 8 sixes at a brilliant strike rate of 191 in an overall stuttering campaign for the Heat, which has been curtailed by the Durban rain on more than one occasion.
Janneman Malan
Another player, who has put up his hand is right-handed Cape Town Blitz opener, Janneman Malan. Malan is the current top scorer in the competition with 298 runs at an average of 42.57 and a strike rate of 150.50. His blistering 99* in the opening match against the Jozi Stars was definitely one of the highlights of the competition thus far.
Bjorn Fortuin
Another former NWU all rounder, Bjorn Fortuin, has also stamped his authority on proccedings with tight spin bowling for the Paarl Rocks. Fortuin, often tasked with opening the bowling in T20’s hasn’t let the pressure get to him. Fortuin has picked up 8 wickets at a good average of 19.62 and an economy rate over 6.03.
With only 7 matches to go until the playoffs start, these players will now, more than ever, need to put in their best effort as they look for MSL glory come the final.