Cricket
NW Dragons target solid start to the season─── MORGAN PIEK 09:05 Thu, 25 Sep 2025
The North West Dragons will be aiming for a strong start to their season when they take on the KZN Tuskers in Potchefstroom on Thursday, in the opening round of the CSA 4-Day Series.
Like every other team, the Dragons have gone through a tough pre-season ahead of the new campaign, and day one can be just as important, if not more so, than the final. A solid start can set the tone for the season ahead.
The Tuskers, although newly promoted, will be a tough nut to crack in the opening round. The Pietermaritzburg side has strengthened well during the off-season, particularly in their bowling department.
Ruan de Swardt. Photo: Morgan Piek
The four-day format has not always been kind to the Dragons in recent seasons, but they head into this first-class campaign with a settled squad. They’ve also bolstered their ranks by bringing in some serious match-winners to Potchefstroom.
The Dragons will once again be led by former Proteas all-rounder Wihan Lubbe, who himself is capable of turning a game on any given day.
Lubbe told OFM Sport that the team are thrilled to get their campaign underway and keen to make a statement in Potchefstroom, where success in the four-day format has sometimes eluded them.
“It's always exciting to get back into the swing of things after a long break,” said Lubbe.
“I think we’re definitely looking forward to getting going. We had a lot of positive things happening during pre-season, and we’ve also got a few new faces who we’re excited about.
“So, we’re really looking forward to getting back out on the park. Obviously, we take on the Tuskers, and we’re definitely not underestimating them. They’ve got some talented cricketers and have strengthened particularly well in their bowling attack.
Raynard van Tonder. Photo: Morgan Piek
“We know they pose a real threat in that area, and they’ll want to prove a point, so we won’t be taking them lightly.
“You’re right to say the first day of the season is important. After all the work we’ve put in during pre-season, you always want to start on the right note. We’re excited to get on the park and see what the season has in store for us.”
Play between the Dragons and the Tuskers at the JB Marks Oval in Potchefstroom is scheduled to get underway at 10:00 on Thursday morning.
