Hermann’s steady rise earns SA20 recognition

Jordan Hermann believes four seasons with Sunrisers Eastern Cape have transformed him from a promising youngster into one of the SA20’s most dependable top-order batters, with that progression culminating in him being named the competition’s Rising Star of the Season.

The Dafabet Warriors left-hander received the accolade at the Cricket SA Awards after another influential campaign for the three-time champions, capping a steady rise since joining the franchise as a wildcard signing ahead of the inaugural SA20 in 2023.

Across four seasons, Hermann has accumulated 939 runs in 42 matches at an average of 36.60, including a century and four half-centuries.

His development has mirrored the Sunrisers’ rise as a dominant force in the competition, with the Gqeberha-based outfit winning three titles in four seasons.

While his unbeaten 106 against MI Cape Town headlined a breakthrough 2024 campaign, in which he scored 295 runs and announced himself as one of the league’s brightest young batters, his most recent season showcased the maturity that has become a hallmark of his game.

Though he did not register a century in 2026, Hermann’s 273 runs, highlighted by a composed 62 against Pretoria Capitals, underlined his growing consistency as the Sunrisers claimed another title.

“At the start of my Sunrisers journey, I was very young in my career, and I still feel young sometimes, even though I’ve played quite a bit now,” Hermann told The Herald.

“I hadn’t played a lot of professional T20 cricket before that point. The opportunity to play quality opposition year in and year out over four seasons has definitely helped my game grow a lot.

“I’m glad my game is growing in the right direction and that I could express myself the way I wanted to last season.”

Hermann said regular exposure to elite-level cricket had sharpened both his technical understanding and his mindset, while involvement with SA A and the Proteas environment accelerated that growth.

The 24-year-old also credited Sunrisers coach Adrian Birrell and the franchise’s culture for creating an environment where players are trusted to succeed.

“Adi has a knack for getting good people and good players in the same place. When you get chosen to play, you know Adi backs you 100%.

“That gives you immense confidence going into games. It’s been great to be in an environment where you feel comfortable and backed.”

That development earned Hermann a maiden Proteas call-up before injury denied him the opportunity to make his international debut.

While disappointed by the setback, he believes the experience only strengthened his resolve.

“Playing for the Proteas was a dream come true. The heartbreak of picking up my first injury in my career was disappointing, but getting a taste of that environment showed me the level I have to operate at.

“I’m very eager to get back there, and all I can do is keep making runs and give myself the best chance possible.”