Dragons target strong finish to the season

The North West Dragons will head into the final competition of the domestic season with confidence and motivation as they look to turn promising performances into silverware.

Dragons captain Wihan Lubbe admits the team’s campaign has been mixed at times but believes there are encouraging signs within the group as they continue to build a winning culture.

“I think it’s been a bit up and down this season for us,” Lubbe said. “We’ve played some exceptional cricket in stages and then we’ve played some poor cricket in the same sort of breath. The inconsistencies have probably bitten us a bit.

“In saying that though, a lot of good things have come from it. I think the four-day competition was one we were happy with, even though we didn’t end up playing in the final. We obviously slid down the log as well, risking a loss in order to try and chase a final, which is a testament to where the mindset is and where the culture is going in the group.

“We’re no longer just happy to swim in the bottom or middle of the pack. We’re looking at how we can go about winning trophies consistently and that’s where the mindset has been really good.”

With the final competition of the season underway, Lubbe says the squad remains highly motivated to do well in the 1-Day cup, particularly after going close in previous campaigns.

“I think because we’ve come so close a couple of times in the last few seasons and again played some really good cricket in patches this season, there’s definitely a lot of motivation among the guys,” he said.

“We’ve obviously had a couple of players put their hands up during the season with some good performances and we’re pushing as hard as we can. We’ve prepared well. We’ve had one or two injuries, which isn’t ideal at this time of the season but we’ve filled those spots nicely and we’ve got a couple of guys waiting in the wings who have been in good form.

“We’re hoping to deliver a good 50-over competition and see where that takes us but the motivation levels are definitely high.”

Lubbe believes the Dragons’ strength lies in their balance across the squad, with several players capable of influencing games in key moments.

“I think honestly it’s a little bit of everything,” he explained. “We’ve got quite a few x-factor players in our squad who on any given day can change a game.

“But I’d be stupid not to mention our middle order now. Ruben (Hermann), Forrie (Dian Forrester), Patches (Ruan de Swardt) and Lesiba (Ngoepe), when he’s available again, those guys have been really, good for us.

“If I had to pick one strength it would probably be that, but overall, we complement each other well in the squad. It’s not just one guy doing the heavy lifting. It’s various guys stepping up at various stages and that’s a big positive.”

The Dragons have also benefited from a healthy blend of youth and experience within the squad, something Lubbe feels has strengthened the team dynamic.

“We’ve got a nice mixture going with a few more experienced heads than in the past couple of seasons, mixed with the youth that we’ll always have with such a strong varsity setup right around the corner,” he said. “Obviously, Paul James has also come in as a loan player for us.

“We’ve got a talented young group and there’s a nice little battle within the squad. We try and keep each other accountable as much as possible.

“I try to remind the youngsters that the old guys can still hold their own. The oldies might not outfield the young guys anymore but on the football pitch in the warm-ups the youngsters are getting humbled!

“But in general, it’s a good balance. It’s always good to hear different perspectives from the younger guys, while having a few experienced heads around to fine-tune those skills and add value where we can.”

Lubbe added that the balance between youthful confidence and experienced leadership has helped the squad complement one another effectively.

“The youngsters bring a bit of cockiness and belief that they can do anything, and that’s awesome to see,” he said.

“Then you’ve got the stalwarts like Dom Hendricks and Diego (Rosier) and those types of guys who can steady the ship when it’s necessary.

“I’m very happy with where the squad is at and we’re definitely looking forward to the last competition of the season.”