Johannesburg: South African batting sensation Richard Levi might have been lost to rugby because he was considered too big and strong on the cricket fields, his father revealed.
Levi set two Twenty20 records with his 45-ball unbeaten 117 against New Zealand in Hamilton -- equalling the fastest century and the most sixers in an innings.
Somewhat ironically, Levi was one of the players who failed to secure a contract during the lucrative IPL bidding earlier this month and team bosses are now wondering how the the 24-year-old was overlooked.
Levi`s father Jonathan told the Afrikaans daily `Beeld` here that his son`s performance was like a dream come true.
"I still can`t believe it. It was just his second turnout for South Africa and your only wish is that he doesn`t make a fool of himself," Levi said.
Levi said that his son had fared better at rugby than at cricket while at school.
"He could kick the ball equally well with both feet but suffered with frequent injuries and played hockey in the winter instead," Levi said.
Keith Richardson, principal of Wynberg Boys High, which Levi attended, said he always stood out in sports.
"Because he was bigger and stronger than his contemporaries, he always ended up playing against older boys. I think that is one of the reasons why he is so good," Richardson said.
PTI
First Published: Tuesday, February 21, 2012, 20:13