“Red-ball cricket reveals who you are,” says Wihan Lubbe. In our latest sit-down, the North West Dragons captain opens up about the lessons of leadership, mentoring the next generation, and why first-class cricket still defines the true cricketer.

Wihan Lubbe’s voice carries the calm authority of experience – someone who’s seen the game change, yet still believes in its oldest truths.

“Red-ball cricket reveals who you are,” he says. “It gives you a better understanding of where you are as a person and as a cricketer.”

As captain of the North West Dragons, Lubbe has become a mentor figure in a side that’s steadily rebuilding both on and off the field.

“It’s been really good to be back home, to be part of the rebuild,” he reflects. “A few years ago, there were some darker days, but it’s been awesome to see the team and the whole union grow again. We’re turning into a professional setup – that’s what we’re aiming for.”

Lubbe credits much of that growth to the people around him – from head coach Craig Alexander and assistant Neil, to the close bond between players.

“We’re a bunch of friends, which is good. There’s not a whole lot of distractions here, so you naturally spend more time together. We’re building relationships – it’s not just a cricket thing.”

Those relationships, he says, make a difference when the pressure’s on.

“If you understand what a guy’s going through off the field, it often shows on the field too. We’re learning each other’s emotions and that always has benefits.”

As one of the senior figures in the team, Lubbe knows the transition from school or U19 cricket to professional level can be a steep climb.

“It takes a while to adapt – mentally and physically. For me, the important thing is just being someone the youngsters can talk to. We’re people first, and managing the person off the field is just as important as managing the cricketer on it.”

He highlights the example of young opener Meeka-eel Prince – one of several emerging players finding their feet under his guidance.

“I’m learning from him as much as he’s learning from me. That’s the beauty of it – it’s a two-way street.”

But it’s when the conversation turns to red-ball cricket that Lubbe’s passion shines through.

“You learn your game through red-ball cricket. You understand your technique, your thinking. In T20s everything happens so fast – in red-ball it’s a slow curve, and that’s where you really get tested.”

For Lubbe, the long format remains the game’s truest mirror.

“One of my seniors used to speak about ‘riding the waves’ – understanding where you are on that wave. Red-ball cricket teaches you that. It tests your patience, your temperament, and your discipline.”

And despite the lure of T20 leagues and quick contracts, he’s encouraged to see young players still chasing the dream of wearing the national whites.

“It’s great to see that youngsters still want to play red-ball cricket. You want to play Test cricket for your country. The money and glitz are great, but that baggy green cap – that’s what it’s all about.”

Watch the full conversation with Wihan Lubbe as he opens up about leadership, mentorship, and the mindset behind red-ball cricket – only on Cricket Fanatics Magazine’s YouTube channel.