DB Wylde Leadership. The DB Wylde Leadership Indaba at St Andrew’s College, Makhanda, proved to be an inspiring evening of authentic leadership, reflection, and wisdom as Adi Birrell (Upper 1979) returned to College as the distinguished 2026 guest speaker.
Parents, pupils, staff, and members of the wider Makhanda community gathered to hear from one of South Africa’s most respected cricket coaches and mentors. With a career spanning over four decades across South Africa, Ireland, and England, Birrell’s achievements include guiding teams to three SA20 titles in just four years—a testament to his enduring influence on the game.
While his coaching stories captivated the audience, it was his simple yet powerful leadership principles that resonated most deeply:
- Discipline above all
- Relationships matter
- Respect your time
- Never be arrogant
Perhaps the standout moment of the evening came when Birrell reflected on team selection and leadership:
“Character beats cover drives every time.”
This fitting reminder underscored that while excellence and achievement are celebrated, character remains at the heart of all we do at St Andrew’s College.

Thank you, Adi, for an unforgettable evening of insight, humility, and inspiration.
Read more school news here: https://schoolsthatrock.co.za/
Photo supplied
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