Zondo earns maiden Proteas call-up
Zondo says he is looking forward to his first taste of international cricket.
SUNFOIL Dolphins middle order batsman, Khaya Zondo, received his maiden national call-up when he was chosen as part of the Oxigen Proteas T20 squad to take on India in the sub-continent at the end of September. The young star said he was thrilled with the news.
Having been a regular member of the Sunfoil Dolphins outfit for the past few seasons, Zondo believe his extended run at franchise level and three opportunities with the South African A squad have prepared him well should he be given an opportunity to showcase his skills during the upcoming Indian assignment.
“It’s a step up from franchise to SA A level and I’m sure it will be another big step up again to international level, but after three tours with the SA A squad, I think I’m ready now. It’s important that you’re fully prepared once you get to international level because you’re not there to be coached, you’re there to perform.”
The 25-year-old received the news recently; however, it wasn’t until he went onto Facebook that the news really sunk in.
“When I opened up Facebook and there was a friend request from AB de Villiers, then I realised that this was pretty real. The support I’ve had since the announcement – even from the team itself – has been great; I received a call from the coach and Temba (Bavuma) and lots of my friends and family too.”
An injury of Rilee Rossouw’s created the opportunity for Zondo, who had impressed throughout the recent triangular ODI series in India between South Africa A, Australia A and India A, where he finished with the second-best batting average of 38.50 behind Quinton de Kock.
While many battle to adjust to conditions in the sub-continent, Zondo is looking forward to returning to a place he has enjoyed touring to previously and doesn’t believe the necessary adjustment will be an issue for him.
“I’ve been to India a few times before for a spinning camp, last year’s Champions League and now the SA A team’s recent triangular series. Also, travelling around a place like South Africa that is as diverse as it is helps prepare you for a place like India. I’ve had a good time in India before and hopefully this can be another good tour,” said Zondo.
Zondo joins fellow Sunfoil Dolphins stars, David Miller, Imran Tahir and Kyle Abbott, in the T20 outfit, and should the young star make his début during the trip, he will become the 65th capped player for South Africa in this short format.
