WIHAN LUBBE 'SENTIMENTAL' ABOUT COMING HOME TO CENTURION'S GEES

Newlands has the mountain, and the Wanderers its gladiatorial-like atmosphere.

But there are few grounds in the world that can compare to Centurion on a perfect Highveld summer evening.

With the red African sun setting over the speeding Gautrain in the distance and the communal braai smoke wafting across the field, cricket has reached its nirvana.

The fact that it boasts undoubtedly the best batting surface in the country that lends itself regularly to hugely entertaining run-fests only adds to its appeal. 

“Centurion is a good place to play cricket because I’m a batter,” says new Pretoria Capitals batting allrounder Wihan Lubbe. 

“I grew up quite close to Centurion, so there is a bit of sentimental value for me personally.

SEE LUBBE'S PLAYER PROFILE AND SA20 STATS

“But just in general, the gees, the braais on top, just everyone around the grass embankments, feels like the fans are part of the game. It's always lekker to play there.”

Lubbe will be returning to the land of his birth after spending the first two Betway SA20 seasons down south at the Paarl Royals in the Western Cape before moving up to cross-town rivals Joburg Super Kings in Season 3. 

During his time at the Royals, the 32-year-old was offered high praise for showing “great character and great maturity” by none other than former England white-ball captain Jos Buttler.

His all-round ability with bat and ball will certainly add great balance to Sourav Ganguly’s Capitals team, and the allrounder cannot wait to turn out in the sky blue in front of a packed Centurion. 

“The crowds are always the most exciting thing about SA20,” Lubbe said.

“Domestically we don’t often get full stadiums, so for us to be playing in front of a packed house, especially Centurion. 

“It will be nice to see a full Centurion in December and January.”