It was a challenging season for the Dragons, who didn’t quite meet their own high expectations, falling short of reaching a final in any of their three campaigns.

Captain Wihan Lubbe was named the Dragons’ Player of the Season following a series of consistent performances with the bat.

Lubbe told OFM Sport that being recognised for his efforts on the field was something truly special, even though the season didn’t go entirely according to plan.

“It’s definitely a special feeling winning this award – it’s always great to receive it playing for the Dragons, especially after coming back home a few years ago,” said Lubbe.

“It’s even more meaningful to win it here in Potch. We’ve got a special group of people around us, which makes the whole journey that much more enjoyable. It really is a very special award to win.”

Reflecting on the season, Lubbe admitted there were some ups and downs, but he believes the team made solid progress and laid a strong foundation for the 2025/26 campaign.

Meeka-eel Prince. Photo: Dragons

“Looking back at the team’s performances, I think we still feel like we left a bit out there. But we can be proud of certain moments, and we showed glimpses of our full potential.

“Hopefully, we can build on that during the off-season and carry that momentum into next season. It was a season of mixed emotions – really happy with some aspects, and a little disappointed with others.

“But I’m proud of how the guys kept fighting throughout. That’s what we stand for, and that’s what we strive towards every day. I’m very proud of the team and the way they conducted themselves.”

The North West Dragons Women earned a promotion back to the top division of domestic cricket. Photo: CSA

Last week, the Dragons began shaping their squad for the new season by signing experienced seamer Alfred Mothoa.

Adding to the positive direction the Dragons are heading in, batter Meeka-eel Prince and seamer Gideon Peters were included in the Proteas squad for the tour to Pakistan ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy. While neither made their senior debut, the experience was invaluable for both players.

On the women’s front, the Dragons also made a statement by earning promotion back to the top division of domestic women’s cricket.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cg