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Herschelle Herman Gibbs

Herschelle Gibbs Photographer: Paul McGregor

Herschelle Herman Gibbs is the only fielder in the world who can give Jonty Rhodes a run for his money on the field. And literally so. Before choosing cricket, 'Scooter' as Gibbs is popularly known among his teammates was a fine rugby player and a sprint champion at the schools level.

That he chose cricket as a sport to pursue turned out to be an excellent decision in the end. Gibbs developed into an attacking batsman very early on. As a natural stroke maker, Gibbs found it easy to command a place in any one day side. He developed every stroke in the book under the watchful eyes of the West Indian batting great Desmond Haynes in his early days as a part of the Western Province team. Especially noteworthy is Gibbs' execution of the straight drive, which is one of the toughest shots to play. Gibbs' sense of balance, fleet-footedness and ability to time the ball perfectly make his execution of the straight drive as close to perfect as is humanly possible. Like any other South African, he plays the cut and pull efficiently. Like any truly classy batsman, Gibbs has the ability to play a long innings. His unbeaten double hundred against New Zealand in March 1999 is ample proof of this.

On the field Gibbs is lightning quick. While Jonty Rhodes patrols the cover-point region, Gibbs seals the mid-wicket area. Gibbs ability to let go of the ball quickly, coupled with his terrific sense of anticipation make him one the most dangerous fielders in that area. Gibbs also hits the stumps with unnerving accuracy and this makes it difficult for any batsman to take him on. Add to this one of the safest pair of hands in the game today and you have one of the most complete fielders of all times.

'Scooter' is the most dashing young cricketer in the South African cricket scene. If he continues at this rate, he will be dazzling spectators with his brilliance for many years to come.