NZ Tests open up new doors

Despite arriving in New Zealand as underdogs, Proteas batter Zubayr Hamza (below) says the inexperienced national squad are excited to grab their opportunities when they face hosts New Zealand in a two-Test series from next week.

Just less than half the members of the SA squad have had any Test experience, with many firstchoice players having been left behind due to their commitments in the ongoing SA20 league.

Hamza, however, is confident they can cause an upset. He also admits they are hoping to shine enough as individuals to secure more permanent places in the Proteas team.

“This series is an opportunity,” said Hamza, who played the last of his six Tests against New Zealand in February 2022.

“A lot of us have not played international cricket and there’s not a lot of knowledge regarding international cricket, but everyone is keen and excited. The only way you’re going to learn is by experiencing it. So from an individual perspective it’s a massive opportunity.”

Following a lengthy build-up as a group, Hamza said the SA squad are ready to hit their straps after arriving on New Zealand soil at the weekend.

While they still need to adapt to the conditions, he feels their warm-up matches and training sessions will be sufficient to ensure they are ready to go.

“We’ve been together as a group for at least a month, and we’ve built quite a strong chemistry and camaraderie as a unit,” Hamza said.

“The directive we’ve been given from the coach (Shukri Conrad) is pretty simple. We are South Africans and naturally we are proud individuals, and as a team we’ll be resilient and try our best.

“Every match counts and it’s going to be a challenge but we’re really looking forward to it.”