Proteas ready for bumper season ahead

The South African Cricket team is gearing up for a bumper season.

They will play 19 ODIs in the next nine months which will culminate in the ICC Champions Trophy in England in June next year.

Speaking at St Stithians Boys’ College after the squad had a lengthy practice session at the school grounds, Proteas assistant coach, Adrian Birrell, said the team was ready for the long season that awaited them.

“We have the two young all-rounders who are coming into the squad –Andile Phehlukwayo and Dwaine Pretorius – and are two exciting prospects. We have always said that we need all-rounders to come through to make sure that the balance of the team is easier, it’s great to see that we have options,” he said.

The Proteas have been dealt a major blow ahead of the series against Australia as all-rounder Chris Morris has been ruled out for two months with a niggle.

Team manager, Dr Mohammed Moosajee said, “Chris has been carrying a chronic left knee patella tendon injury for the last eight months which we have treated and managed up to this point. The injury has flared up considerably over the last two weeks, leaving us with no option but rest and rehabilitation to allow the knee time to fully recover.”

Former St Stithians Boys’ College pupil Kagiso Rabada said he was looking forward to continuing his great form that saw him scoop six accolades at the annual Cricket South Africa awards in July this year.

Director of cricket at St Stithians, Wim Jansen, said having the Proteas at the school was a great opportunity for the young cricketers to engage with their role models.

“Having the Proteas team come train at our school is great for cricket in the school. It’s also great to see our old boy Kagiso Rabada back,” he said.

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