Nationality: South Africa
Position: Allrounder
Batting Style: Right Hand Bat
Bowling Style: Slow Left Arm Orthodox
Date of Birth: 1994-06-02 Age: 30

Smangaliso Nhlebela, born on June 2, 1994, in the heartland of cricket’s diverse tapestry, emerged like a gust of fresh air into the cricketing fraternity, carving a niche with his multifaceted skills as an allrounder. From the dusty pitches of his hometown to the lush greens of international grounds, Nhlebela's journey is a narrative of perseverance, passion, and unyielding dedication.
Nhlebela’s fascination with cricket sparked in his early years, striking balls with fervour in local parks against makeshift wickets. His aptitude was undeniable, catching the eye of local coaches who honed his raw talent. By his late teens, he was already a name whispered with excitement among scouts, and it was no surprise when he made his professional debut in the domestic circuit at just 19. From there, Nhlebela's rise was meteoric.
At the crease, Nhlebela was a right-handed batsman, known for his aggressive stroke play, particularly favouring the cover drive that danced exquisitely off his blade like a maestro. His innings were not just about runs but the spirit, often rescuing his team from precarious positions with calculated audacity. As a bowler, he was an artist, weaving spells with his slow-left-arm orthodox deliveries, bamboozling batsmen with deceptive flight and turn that often left them groping in dismay.
Nhlebela’s career boasts several triumphs, but none more significant than his contribution to the national team’s victory at the prestigious ICC Champions Trophy. His all-round performance was instrumental, peppered with a vital half-century in the semis and a pivotal three-wicket haul in the finals. It was during this tournament that his rivalry with a fellow contemporary from a neighbouring nation grabbed headlines, a contest of wits that gave fans a series of unforgettable encounters.
Perhaps one of the most iconic moments of Nhlebela's career unfolded when he smashed consecutive sixes to clinch a last-over thriller, cementing his status as a player who thrives under pressure. His impact on the game transcends stats; it's the indelible memories he leaves in the hearts of cricket enthusiasts.
Smangaliso Nhlebela’s legacy is etched not just in records but in the spirit of the game, a testament to what sheer grit and love for cricket can achieve.
Batting Stats
Format | Mat | Inns | NO | Runs | HS | Ave | BF | SR | 100s | 50s | 6s | 4s |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
T20 | 10 | 7 | 1 | 31 | 16 | 4.43 | 42 | 73.81 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
Bowling Stats
Format | Mat | Inns | Wkts | Runs | Overs | Ave | Econ | Wide | NoBall | 4w | 5w | 10w |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
T20 | 10 | 10 | 7 | 251 | 33.3 | 35.86 | 7.54 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Last updated: 2024-07-10



















