Exclusive: Lhuan-dre Pretorius Responds to Proteas Snub the Only Way He Knows How

It’s been a season of mixed fortunes for 19-year-old Lhuan-dre Pretorius, the prodigious talent who burst onto the scene with a stellar campaign for the Paarl Royals in the SA20 two seasons ago. 

That breakout tournament fast-tracked him into the Proteas set-up across all three formats, marking him as one of South Africa’s brightest young prospects.

Since then, however, the journey has not been without its challenges. Pretorius found himself omitted from various Proteas squads, a setback that tested both his resilience and patience.

Currently turning out for the Titans in the domestic four-day series, the left-hander has responded in the best way he knows how, by scoring runs.

In just 14 first-class matches, Pretorius boasts a remarkable average of 56, along with five centuries and five half-centuries. Since the disappointment of his latest national omission, he has underlined his credentials with a century and a fifty in just three innings.

“I personally feel I’ve sold myself short a bit,” Pretorius admitted. “

I would like to spend more time in the middle and score those big hundreds.”

The teenager believes his success lies in simplicity and structure at the crease.

“What I’ve found when getting decent scores is making sure the first 30 balls are solid and having a clear game plan,” he explained. 

“I am always looking to score straight or attack the short ball, those are my two shots. The rest just takes care of itself.”

Eyes Firmly on Test Cricket

Pretorius has made no secret of his ambition to cement a place in the Proteas Test side. Despite his exposure to white-ball cricket through SA20 and limited-overs internationals, it is the traditional format that captures his imagination.

“I want to be in that side [Proteas Test side], 100 percent,” he said. 

“If I had to pick one format to play, I’d definitely pick Test cricket. I get asked that question a lot.”

“It’s a bit of a cliché, but Test cricket is the pinnacle of the game. I would love to play Test cricket for as long as I can.”

The SA20 Effect

While red-ball cricket may be his ultimate goal, Pretorius acknowledges the role SA20 has played in shaping his development. The freedom within the Paarl Royals environment has allowed him to grow both technically and mentally.

 “I’ve been fortunate to work with some brilliant coaches, and the Royals’ environment has been really good. They allow players to just be themselves.”

He believes that sense of freedom has been key to unlocking his best performances.

“As a youngster, you can get caught up playing for your spot in the next game. But that environment allows you to be expressive and play with freedom. There’s a reason why we’re there. That’s when I play my best cricket.”

World Cup Heartbreak — And Perspective

Pretorius also faced the disappointment of missing out on selection for the T20 World Cup squad. After a string of promising cameos, he fell short of earning a place in the final group.

“Prior to the announcement, there wasn’t much going through my mind,” he said candidly. 

“And to be honest, I’m 19 years old. What I’ve done so far in my short career — if you told me at 10 years old that I’d play for the Proteas, I would’ve taken it with both hands.”

National coach Shukri Conrad delivered the news personally, a gesture Pretorius appreciated.

“Shuks is an honest and straightforward person. We had our chats and he told me. I’ll always respect his decision because he’s coaching South Africa for a reason.”

“I trust the plan he has for me. If that means I only play my next international game in five years, so be it. I just want to enjoy my cricket and make as many runs as possible.”

Communication between management and players has been a talking point in recent months, with some claiming a lack of transparency. Pretorius, however, insists he experienced clarity.

“I can’t speak on others, I don’t know about that. My communication was early and very clear. There is a plan in place for me.”

When pressed on the details of that plan, the teenager laughed: “No, it’s confidential. I trust Shuks.”

Belief in World Cup Glory

Despite his personal disappointment, Pretorius remains optimistic about South Africa’s chances on the global stage. The Proteas have long battled the ‘chokers’ tag, but the young batter believes this squad has what it takes to go all the way.

“I definitely feel they can win it,” he said. 

“I spoke to Neil Brand earlier, I genuinely think we can win this World Cup. I’m hopeful.”

“I’ve been in the environment for a couple of series and built good relationships with the guys. I really hope they can win it. It would be good for the country and for cricket in general.”

For now, Pretorius’ focus remains firmly on piling up runs in domestic cricket. At just 19, time is firmly on his side. And if his recent performances are anything to go by, reclaiming a permanent spot in the Proteas set-up may not be a matter of if, but when.