The series starts today: Elgar

LONDON: South Africa’s stand-in captain Dean Elgar says their three-day warm-up fixture against England Lions that starts today is a chance to build vital momentum and confidence ahead of the fourmatch Test series next month.

South Africa have been second-best in the one-day international and Twenty20 series in England this year, and also suffered a first-round exit in the Champions Trophy, but Elgar believes the red ball can signal a change in fortunes.

“We have to compete against a very good England Lions side,” Elgar said.

“To get that competitive edge will be a big thing for us. Naturally, the guys will have that instinct in them so we have an important three days, weather permitting.

“We have a lot of new faces which is exciting for us. There is a different energy within the Test side irrespective of how things have gone in the past. The energy is always in a good place for Test cricket, which is what I want for the boys.

“In my opinion, the series starts tomorrow. It’s going to be vital for us to have three good days of cricket,” he added.

Elgar is leading the side in the place of Faf du Plessis, who has returned to South Africa to be with his wife for the birth of the couple’s first child. He is not yet sure to return for the first Test at Lord’s on July 6.

Elgar is relishing stepping into the role.

“It has been a dream of mine since I have been a young boy, and even if it doesn’t happen at Lord’s it’s still a great opportunity for me to be a senior leader within the group. I’m looking forward to it,” he said.

Meanwhile, Heino Kuhn said he planned to keep the same mindset and approach that had brought him success in the upcoming series.

Kuhn’s debut Test call-up comes on the back of two successful seasons for the Titans, and more recently for South Africa “A” against the England Lions, where he finished as the stand-out performer in a disappointing series.

“Rather late than never,” the 33-year-old said of his selection. “I have matured a lot over the years as a batter and as a cricketer.

“I’m going to try and approach it like I do with every game,” he explained. “I know there is going to be a bit more pressure, especially if I make my debut, but it will be important to see it like it’s any other game.” – Reuters and ANA