In an exciting opening to the SA20 2025 season, 18-year-old Lhuan-dre Pretorius made headlines with a sensational debut efficiency for Paarl Royals towards Sunrisers Jap Cape on Saturday, January 11. His explosive innings of 97 runs off simply 51 balls has drawn widespread acclaim, together with reward from England Check captain Ben Stokes.
Lhuan-dre Pretorius: A Star is Born
Pretorius, who took to the sector alongside seasoned gamers like Joe Root, showcased outstanding expertise and confidence, paying homage to cricketing greats. After a cautious begin, he accelerated his scoring, hitting 10 fours and 6 sixes throughout his innings. His knock was instrumental in organising a profitable run chase for the Royals, who wanted simply 44 runs with 9 wickets in hand when he was dismissed.
What a dispatch 🚀 for the @DP_World Dispatch of the Day. #BetwaySA20 #PRvSEC #welcometoincredible pic.twitter.com/P9vEu6cH36
— Betway SA20 (@SA20_League) January 11, 2025
In his post-match feedback, Pretorius described the expertise as a “dream come true.” He expressed gratitude for the chance to study from established gamers like Root, stating, “I’m simply attempting to be like a sponge and soaking all the pieces in.”
Additionally READ: SA20 2025 – TV channels, reside streaming particulars | When and the place to observe in India, Australia, USA, UK & different nations
Ben Stokes’ response
Stokes took to social media to commend Pretorius’s efficiency, emphasizing the significance of franchise cricket in offering younger skills with alternatives to shine on massive phases. He tweeted, “One of many many issues franchise cricket has accomplished is give younger/inexperienced however extremely gifted gamers alternatives on the most important stage towards the very best on the planet and showcase how good they’re. Lhuan-dre Pretorius is doing that proper now.”
One of many many issues franchise cricket has accomplished is give younger/inexperienced however extremely gifted gamers alternatives on the most important stage towards the very best on the planet and showcase how good they’re.
Lhuan-dre Pretorius is doing that proper now 👏— Ben Stokes (@benstokes38) January 11, 2025
Pretorius will not be new to aggressive cricket; he beforehand excelled on the Underneath-19 World Cup and made waves in home T20 leagues. His efficiency on this match not solely marked his SA20 debut but additionally highlighted his potential as considered one of South Africa’s promising younger cricketers.Given his spectacular begin and the popularity he has acquired, many are optimistic about Pretorius’s future in cricket. If he continues to construct on this momentum, he could quickly discover himself representing South Africa on the senior degree.