STUBBS “REALLY ENJOYING” SECOND IPL SEASON

Betway SA20 star Tristan Stubbs is soaking up all the experience he can gather at this year’s Indian Premier League.

Stubbs was part of the championship-winning Sunrisers Eastern Cape team that lifted the inaugural Betway SA20 trophy back in January. 

This was after the Sunrisers Eastern Cape splashed out a record R9.2 million – the highest purchase price for any player – at the Betway SA20 auction for the precocious talent from Gqeberha.

The 22-year-old, who has also played 13 T20Is and one ODI for the Proteas’ Men’s team already, is still learning his trade though.

The former Grey High school pupil initially rose to  stardom during the 2021/22 Cricket SA T20 Challenge where he struck 293 runs at an a average of 48.33 and strike-rate of 183.13 before launching his international career with a blistering 72 for the Proteas against England in Bristol.

But now in his second season at the IPL, and despite having limited opportunities thus far, he is trying to make the most of the opportunity.

Stubbs is particularly enjoying working with former West Indies and Mumbai Indians all-rounder Kieron Pollard behind the scenes.

“I am enjoying this year quite a bit,” Stubbs said. “Experiencing more of India. Really enjoying it so far.”

“It’s been great working with him (Pollard). Sitting next to him while we’re playing, just the way he speaks about the game, and how he thinks.”

“He is always so calm, and that’s what I have tried to feed off.”

Pollard performed the role of “finisher” with aplomb for Mumbai Indians for over a decade and is now trying to pass on his knowledge to Stubbs, who forms part of a new generation that also includes MI Cape Town duo Dewald Brevis and Duan Jansen.

Stubbs, who is a naturally laidback character, is taking all in his stride and is backing is his ability to succeed in this high-pressure role.

“You always have to go in and try to express yourself whatever the situation is,” he said.

“It’s not an easy job, but you have to try and contribute wherever you can.”