South Africa is caught in a difficult situation. On the one hand, they want to give Temba Bavuma some playing time so he can get in shape. However, they are aware that any additional mistakes before the T20 World Cup opening in Hobart on Monday would simply put more pressure on their leadership.
Bavuma, who is battling a viral ailment contracted on the last India trip, finally chose not to play in the first exhibition game against New Zealand on Monday in Brisbane, leaving just Wednesday’s encounter against Bangladesh as his final opportunity for any middle-field practice.
Reeza Hendricks and Rilee Rossouw, the Proteas’ temporary opening combination in place of Bavuma and Quinton de Kock, handled New Zealand’s subpar 98 all out in a methodical manner.
Before Hendricks was caught on the cover boundary for 27 off 24 balls, the pair sped to 66/1 in 6.5 overs (4×4, 1×6). The Proteas cruised to victory by nine wickets in only 11.1 overs because to the ideal foundation, with Rossouw scoring 54 runs while remaining undefeated (31 balls, 9×4, 1×6).
Bavuma was not a major worry for Proteas vice captain Keshav Maharaj, who noted that “he is building up beautifully before the World Cup” and that “we will probably see him in the next game.”
However, Maharaj was pleased with how the batsmen reduced the Black Caps’ total.
Rilee has been in outstanding shape, and he simply makes things seem simple. On a challenging track, I believe our batting’s structure and plan really came to the fore,” Maharaj remarked.
However, Tabraiz Shamsi’s return to form after the hit-out at the Allan Border Field was a significant plus. Despite being a key component of the Proteas’ strategy and one of the best bowlers in the shortest format, the leg-spinner struggled in India.
Shamsi, though, is a “confidence bowler” and nearly unstoppable when he has his tail up. It is encouraging for the Proteas that he and Maharaj worked well together, with the spinners earning combined figures of 5/23 to run through New Zealand.
“I believe that from a mental perspective, our visit to India was really taxing. Having said that, it was crucial that we regained some momentum after suffering two series defeats. Warm-up games may get boring and lose their energy, but Maharaj noted that he believed the players were acting extremely professionally.
“I don’t believe it was spinner-friendly; rather, it was just a little sluggish, which enabled us to try and take advantage of the circumstances. Shammo (Shamsi) bowled really well, in my opinion.
“We are aware that he is a performer of the highest caliber, and everyone experiences professional shifts at different points. It’s wonderful to watch Shammo performing at his peak, and I have no doubt that he will be a major factor in this World Cup.