Lhuan-dre Pretorius Shines in SA20 Debut, Leading Paarl Royals to Victory
Eighteen-year-old Lhuan-dre Pretorius made headlines with a spectacular performance in his SA20 debut, scoring 97 runs off just 51 balls, helping the Paarl Royals secure a commanding nine-wicket victory over Sunrisers Eastern Cape at Boland Park.
Pretorius’s innings was a masterclass of aggression and finesse, featuring ten boundaries and six towering sixes. His explosive start set the tone for the Royals, allowing for an impressive opening partnership of 132 runs with seasoned England international Joe Root.
Root, who remained unbeaten on 62 runs from 44 balls, praised Pretorius’s extraordinary talent and composure under pressure. “Phenomenal,” Root remarked. “We’ve seen what he’s capable of during the warm-up games, but to replicate that on this stage, against such quality bowlers, was scintillating. He made my job a lot easier.”
Pretorius’s ability to strike the ball cleanly and find gaps across the field was evident throughout his innings. “He’s such a strong boy, hits the ball so cleanly. The more he trusted his ability, the cleaner he struck it,” added Root, highlighting Pretorius’s potential for future matches.
Earlier in the game, the Sunrisers had set a competitive total of 175/5, with captain Aiden Markram’s elegant 82 runs being the standout performance. However, the Royals’ bowlers, led by the young Kwena Maphaka (2/35) and spinner Mujeeb Ur Rahman (2/27), effectively contained the Sunrisers’ batting lineup.
As the Royals prepare for their upcoming Western Cape derby against MI Cape Town, the team will look to build on this momentum. Meanwhile, the Sunrisers aim to regroup for their clash with the Pretoria Capitals.
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