SAM PROVES A GOOD FIT FOR TOUGH TIMES
SAM CURRAN has told of England’s pride at coming through a tough week of illness and heartbreak.
Curran led the way when the bowlers went toe-to-toe with South Africa’s batsmen on a punishing day one in the field, Ben Stokes struggling with dehydration and the emotional turmoil over his critically-ill dad Ged, who remains in hospital.
With Stuart Broad and Jofra Archer bouncing back from illness to bowl their first balls on tour, Curran’s 4-57 reflected both his skill and his fitness.
“It’s been a tough week for us as a squad and I think we’re pretty pleased the way we stuck together as a group today,” said the 21-year-old, who removed dangerman Quinton de Kock for 95.
“It was tough. It was a really warm day, not much breeze out there as well, so making sure we fight for one another and we stuck together was important.
“From what I’ve heard, it’s probably a bit of dehydration and things like that for Ben, so fingers crossed he’s feeling a little bit better. We know his character is very strong.
“Touch wood I’ve been fine. I don’t want to jinx it though.”
Curran did plenty right on a pitch that seemed to suit his style of bowling as he drew three edges, taken behind the stumps to open his account in South Africa.
As the son of a former Zimbabwean cricketer, and with a brother born in Cape Town, Curran admitted he was thrilled to finally play international cricket in South Africa.
“I was very excited to be playing here,” he added. “It’s pretty special and I’ve heard a lot of great things about South Africa and playing here.
“The atmosphere, probably shocked me today. It was pretty cool and loud throughout.”