Sky’s the limit for Sipamla

If all goes well‚ the name Lutho Sipamla will be synonymous with South African cricket for many years to come.

The 20-year-old Eastern Province fast bowler was plucked out of relative obscurity to take the centre stage of the Mzansi Super League (MSL) with the Tshwane Spartans, and he has impressed many people‚ including the celebrated former Proteas captain, A B de Villiers.

“I am very impressed with him. I think he has all the credentials to become a serious fast bowler for South Africa‚” said De Villiers.

As he enthused about him‚ De Villiers also urged the public not to put too much pressure on the highly talented youngster from Port Elizabeth because he still has a long way to go in his development.

“We must not put unnecessary pressure on him. He is a fantastic kid‚ he has the right head on his shoulders and he needs to be given proper guidance and support to learn and improve over the next few years‚” De Villiers said.

Despite the Spartans struggling in the tournament and finishing second-from-bottom‚ Sipamla took 16 wickets in the 10 matches he played, with best figures of 3/19.

Now he has captured the imagination of the public and possible call-ups to South Africa A and the Proteas may not be far-fetched. However, Sipamla is not in a rush to represent his country.

“I have not put a set target as to when I want to play for the Proteas‚ but it remains a goal of mine to play for the national team one day‚” he said.