Haasbroek has extended his contract with the Knights by another year, and his experience will be invaluable as they step back into the top tier of domestic cricket. The 29-year-old, who celebrated his birthday on Sunday, brings prior Division One experience, having previously represented the Lions.

Haasbroek told OFM Sport he is eager to keep building on what the side has started in Bloemfontein. “I’m obviously very excited for another season and extremely grateful to still be part of the Knights setup.”  

Ruan Haasbroek. Photo: Morgan Piek

“It’s always a great feeling knowing a team has trust and faith in you to continue representing them and hopefully keep winning games. I’m really excited for what lies ahead.”

Looking ahead to Free State’s promotion back to the top flight, Haasbroek believes the squad will approach the challenge with a bold and refreshed mindset – one that goes beyond simply making up the numbers.

“Moving to Division One will definitely bring new challenges, but it’s something everyone is looking forward to, and we’re ready for it. We’re not going in just to compete, we want to win trophies. That’s the mindset.

“Even from the outside, after just one season, the amount of talent and potential in Bloemfontein is incredible – not just in cricket, but across all sports.”

“We shouldn’t just be competing; we should be dominating in the sporting arena.”

Haasbroek added that maintaining the strong momentum built over the past season will be key, especially as they are set to face stronger opposition week in and week out.

“In the past, it was about just staying up, but now the language has changed. It’s far more positive. We’ve worked hard to build a winning culture, and winning becomes a habit. That’s what we want to carry forward.”

Captain Dane Piedt is expected to continue his career at the Knights. Photo: Morgan Piek

“As a team, we set out to win all three trophies, and we managed to achieve that. It shows the depth we had, especially with injuries and players being called up. Those are really encouraging signs for the future.

“Next season isn’t about survival in Division One – it’s about competing at the highest level and winning trophies. That’s the environment and mindset we’re focused on maintaining.”

On the squad front, Haasbroek said the confirmed new signings will inject fresh energy into the group, particularly with several younger players joining the ranks.

“We’ve brought in a lot of young players and new faces, which is exciting. They bring different skills, perspectives, and energy. Everyone adds their own ingredient, and at the end of the day, we want to feast together as a team.”

Big-hitting opening batter Jacques Snyman is also expected to stay on at the Knights. Photo: Morgan Piek

“It’s a young squad, but we’ve got time to build over the next couple of seasons. From what I’ve seen, they’re more than capable of thriving in Division One.

“There’s a lot to play for in Free State cricket right now. It’s definitely on the rise, and I’m excited to see where this journey takes us over the next season or two.

“I can’t wait to get going again – and I’m proud to still be playing in the blue and orange.”

Meanwhile, experienced Proteas players Dane Piedt, Gihahn Cloete, and Jacques Snyman are among those set to remain with the Knights as they gear up for the challenges ahead.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek dg