NEW DELHI: South Africa‘s second-string Test squad is prepared to make their nation proud in New Zealand, even with the majority of their regular players participating in the SA20, the country’s T20 competition.
Fast bowler Dane Paterson believes that the low profile of their players might work in their favor as they embark on the challenge of facing a full-strength New Zealand side.
With eight uncapped players, including debutant captain Neil Brand, the 15-man squad is set to take on New Zealand in the first Test at Mount Maunganui on Sunday.
While facing the prospect of continuing their unbeaten record in Test series against New Zealand seems challenging, Paterson is optimistic that the unfamiliarity of their squad might pose a challenge for the hosts.
Paterson, who last played a Test match four years ago, expressed confidence in the squad’s ability to surprise their opponents. He noted that both sides are relatively unknown to each other, making the series an exciting challenge for the South African team.
The bowling attack, led by 15-Test veteran Duanne Olivier, is tasked with dismissing the formidable New Zealand batting lineup, including captain Kane Williamson. Paterson emphasized that the squad does not see themselves as underdogs and takes pride in handling pressure situations.
The perceived mismatch between the two sides has drawn criticism from global cricket media, with concerns raised about Cricket South Africa (CSA) prioritizing the domestic T20 tournament over the test series.
Despite the criticism, CSA stated that the SA20 is crucial for its financial stability, and attempts to reschedule the Test series were unsuccessful.
The series opener coincides with the West Indies’ surprising victory against Australia at the Gabba, where a raw West Indies team split the series 1-1 with the world champions. Paterson mentioned that South Africa’s squad looks to draw inspiration from the West Indies’ performance and is eager to face the challenges presented in New Zealand.
(With inputs from Reuters)
Fast bowler Dane Paterson believes that the low profile of their players might work in their favor as they embark on the challenge of facing a full-strength New Zealand side.
With eight uncapped players, including debutant captain Neil Brand, the 15-man squad is set to take on New Zealand in the first Test at Mount Maunganui on Sunday.
While facing the prospect of continuing their unbeaten record in Test series against New Zealand seems challenging, Paterson is optimistic that the unfamiliarity of their squad might pose a challenge for the hosts.
Paterson, who last played a Test match four years ago, expressed confidence in the squad’s ability to surprise their opponents. He noted that both sides are relatively unknown to each other, making the series an exciting challenge for the South African team.
The bowling attack, led by 15-Test veteran Duanne Olivier, is tasked with dismissing the formidable New Zealand batting lineup, including captain Kane Williamson. Paterson emphasized that the squad does not see themselves as underdogs and takes pride in handling pressure situations.
The perceived mismatch between the two sides has drawn criticism from global cricket media, with concerns raised about Cricket South Africa (CSA) prioritizing the domestic T20 tournament over the test series.
Despite the criticism, CSA stated that the SA20 is crucial for its financial stability, and attempts to reschedule the Test series were unsuccessful.
The series opener coincides with the West Indies’ surprising victory against Australia at the Gabba, where a raw West Indies team split the series 1-1 with the world champions. Paterson mentioned that South Africa’s squad looks to draw inspiration from the West Indies’ performance and is eager to face the challenges presented in New Zealand.
(With inputs from Reuters)
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