Indian challenge for on-fire Proteas
There is a new mood of youthful optimism in the Proteas cricket camp as they continue to build momentum ahead of the ICC men’s T20 Cricket World Cup in Australia later in 2020. Under new coach Mark Boucher, the Proteas chalked up a notable 3-0 series whitewash over a formidable Australian side who will be among the favourites to lift the World Cup on home soil.
On the back of their impressive showing against the Aussies, Quinton de Kock’s Proteas face another test of their credentials with a stiff three-match ODI series against World Cup favourites India.
The Indian series will be a wonderful opportunity for Boucher’s men to show they can mix with the best.
During the Proteas series it was heartening to see Boucher blooding some fresh new talent into his lineup.
The introduction of Janneman Malan, Kyle Verreynne, Lutho Sipamla and Daryn Dupavillon was a step in the right direction as the Proteas bid to widen their player base. Playing at the top level is the only way to test the mettle of young players who have shown they have the ability to impress at franchise level.
Warriors stars Jon-Jon Smuts and Anrich Nortje continue to impress for the Proteas and the pair may well be key players if they can continue their upward trajectory.
Smuts is a powerful, destructive batsman, who on his day is capable of tearing the best attacks in world cricket apart.
Like Smuts, Nortje is also a potential match winner with his searing pace which can give batsmen problems on even benign one-day tracks.
Smuts has made it clear he is not thinking too far ahead to the T20 World because of the fierce competition for places in the SA limited-overs sides.
His stocks are rising, especially after being named man of the match for his 84 and two wickets in the six-wicket win over Australia in Potchefstroom on Saturday.
After the Dharamshala clash, the Proteas will play the second ODI on March 15 in Lucknow with the final match scheduled for Kolkata on March 18.
It’s a golden chance for Warriors Smuts, Nortje and Sipamla to show they belong on cricket’s biggest stage.