Matthew Breetzke

His formal cricketing journey commenced with the Grey U9 A team in 2007. Demonstrating prodigious talent, Breetzke's performances were nothing short of remarkable. In 2008, as a U10 player, he scored an unbeaten 154 against Dale, a rival Eastern Cape school. Continuing this trajectory, in 2011, playing for the U14A team, he amassed another unbeaten century, scoring 124 runs against the same opposition.

Throughout his U14 & U15 days, he maintained an impressive batting average exceeding 75. Batting as an opener, he showcased versatility by batting at number three or four, especially playing for the Eastern Province.

Breetzke acknowledges the pivotal role of his family, particularly his father's unwavering commitment, which included countless hours of practice sessions. His older brother, Chad, a former EP schools’ cricketer, also played a significant role by offering technical advice and support. Additionally, coaches Fred Swaarbroek and Dave Callahan were instrumental in refining his skills and boosting his confidence during his formative years.

One of his biggest breakthroughs was his First-Class debut with Eastern Provinces against Free State in February 2017 at Bloemfontein. He scored resilient 36 runs in his second innings, announcing himself at a more competitive level.

Not even a week after his first-class debut, Breetzke donned his maiden List-A cap at the same venue and against the same opponent.

His hard work was paying off, he had been marking his territory in the longer formats and now it was his time to debut in the T20s. In September 2017, Breetzke played his maiden T20 match against Gauteng at Potchefstroom. Although his debut wasn’t the best of ones, he eventually fitted his shoes in the shortest format.

Breetzke's association with the South Africa Under-19 team began in 2015, marking the start of a prolific phase in youth cricket. Throughout his Under-19 One Day International (ODI) career, he played 25 matches, amassing 1,053 runs at an impressive average of 42.12. His contributions included four centuries and five half-centuries, with a highest score of 115. Additionally, he demonstrated his fielding capabilities with ten catches.

The pinnacle of Breetzke's Under-19 tenure was his participation in the 2018 ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup. Serving as an opener, he emerged as the team's second-highest run-scorer in the tournament. Notably, he scored a century against New Zealand Under-19s. His consistent performances at the Under-19 level facilitated a seamless transition to professional cricket. He made his T20I debut for South Africa in December 2024 against Pakistan at SuperSport Park in Centurion. In this match, he showcased early glimpses of his aggressive batting style.

In February 2025, during the Pakistan ODI Tri-Series at Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium, he etched his name into the annals of cricketing history. Facing New Zealand, Breetzke delivered a masterclass innings, scoring a staggering 150 runs. This remarkable feat not only marked the highest score by any player on ODI debut but also surpassed the long-standing record of 148 runs set by West Indies' Desmond Haynes in 1978.

Breetzke's stellar performance did not go unnoticed. Proteas captain Temba Bavuma, reflecting on the debutant's innings, remarked, "He is one of the few young guys who plays in all the three formats. I am sure you will see a lot of such performances from Breetzke in the near future." Such high praise from a seasoned leader underscores Breetzke's potential to become a cornerstone of South African cricket.

Breetzke's growing stature in T20 cricket culminated in his acquisition by the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) for the 2025 IPL season. Secured for INR 75 lakh during the mega auction. His selection was influenced by his impressive performances with Durban's Super Giants, a franchise also owned by the RPSG Group.

Breetzke's early exploits have not only provided South Africa with a dependable opener but have also injected a renewed sense of vigour into the team's batting lineup. His record-breaking debut has set high expectations, and cricket enthusiasts worldwide are keenly watching his progression. 

(As of March 2025)