Dolphins’ all-rounder eager to learn during Proteas experience

SUNFOIL Dolphins all-rounder, Andile Phehlukwayo is over the moon with his inclusion in the Standard Bank Proteas squad for the upcoming once-off 50-over clash against Ireland and Momentum ODI Series against Australia. National convener of selectors, Linda Zondi announced Phehlukwayo as one of three new faces in the South African squad, with Phelukwayo joining Temba Bavuma and Dwaine Pretorius as ODI newcomers.

“I’m really, really happy and overwhelmed by my selection,” said Phehlukwayo shortly after arriving back in South Africa after touring Australia with the national ‘A’ side for the past five weeks. I was having coffee while waiting to board our flight home when I got the call and I couldn’t quite believe it at first. Since I’ve got back I’ve been enjoying the moment with my family and a few friends,” he added.

The young bowling all-rounder is relishing the opportunity to rub shoulders with some of the country’s biggest cricketing names and learning as much as he can during his time with the national squad.

“I’m extremely lucky to be in this position; not many players get the chance to be part of the Proteas setup, so I’m really looking forward to the opportunity. I hope to learn as much as I can while I’m there and continue to try to grow my game as best I can. Hopefully, I can try to lock into the minds of everyone in the Proteas mix, guys like Dale (Steyn) from a bowling point of view, AB (de Villiers) and Hash (Amla) with the bat; everyone really.”

Having preceded his time in Australia with a gruelling stint with the Powerade National Academy in Pretoria in the Winter, Phehlukwayo believes his preparation both for his upcoming assignments as well as the 2016/17 domestic season has been good.

“National Academy went really well and then I felt I had a decent tour to Australia with the ‘A’ side. Hopefully I can just keep improving my game, especially my batting, as I know what my potential is and what I have produced so far.”