All-rounder Delano Potgieter’s main short-term goal is to earn a regular spot in the Lions side this domestic season and his impressive performances for USSA XI is a satisfying start, writes Khalid Mohidin.

The 22-year-old has made plenty of noise during pre-season. His performances, particularly for the University Sports South Africa XI, were impressive, where he showed consistency with both the bat and ball.

In an exclusive interview with Cricket Fanatics Magazine, Potgieter explained how the experience has grown him as a player.

“It most certainly taught me that every game is an opportunity that comes your way.’ he said. “It also showed me that you need to take every opportunity and give it your best shot. Never take an opportunity for granted as it might not come your way again.”

He definitely took his opportunity for USSA XI. He stood out, particularly, when his teammates struggled the most. He scored 124 not out and took 3-56 in a narrow defeat to Sri Lanka Emerging, helped his side seal a win against SA Emerging by scoring 70 and taking 1-30 and scored an unbeaten 97 not out in a second defeat to SL Emerging.

Potgieter’s recent rise has been inspiring. There has been an assumption that South Africa has struggled to produce quality all-rounders, and he has now thrown his name into the discussion amongst many other young and up-and-coming all-round players.

The Proteas’ disappointing World Cup campaign means that a rebuild needs to happen and selectors will be keeping an eye out for South Africa’s next generation to put up their hands.

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But national selection isn’t on the youngster’s mind right now.

“My goal for the new season is to become a permanent player at the Highveld Lions and to maintain consistency when it comes to my performance with bat and ball,” Potgieter said.

“I put hard work into both, batting and bowling. To be an all-rounder you have to give batting and bowling equal time in training.

“My motivation and drive is to accomplish my teenage dream of playing cricket on higher levels and representing on big stages, and by doing so making those closest to me proud.’

His claim-to-fame was when he scored a career-best 145 in a 331-run seven-wicket stand with Bjorn Fortuin (183) to help the Lions to 440 in their first innings against the Warriors in the final game of the season.

Potgieter also took 4-81 in the match. His all-round display was critical in the Lions winning the clash by 83 runs, which was the title decider that crowned them 4-Day Franchise Series champions.

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The Hoërskool Marais Viljoen pupil also gave a shout out to the coach who has been an inspiration to him all his life.

“The coach that has been the most inspirational to me is Neil Levenson. He has been my coach throughout High School and still today he knows exactly how to get the best out of me and he understands the kind of brand of cricket that I play and wish to continue playing.”

Potgieter has played 14 first class games with 679 runs and 43 wickets to his name. He has a batting average of 29.52 and a bowling average of 22.11.

Photo: UJ Sport/Twitter @UJ_Sport