Johannesburg - Proteas all-rounder, Chris Morris, has described his match-winning performance in the fourth One-Day International against England at the Bidvest Wanderers Stadium on Friday as one of the most memorable moments of his cricket career. Morris's thrilling career-best innings of 62 saved the Proteas from the brink of defeat, and has set up an enticing series finale at PPC Newlands on Sunday.
“Today was one of the most memorable days of my cricketing career,” Morris said after the one-wicket win. “I keep saying that I'm always happy that I can contribute. To win a game for your country, it doesn't matter what format be it chess, darts or whatever, to win a game for your country is a special feeling.
“For myself personally, I'm happy that I could contribute, but in saying that I'm glad I got some runs under the belt, it was nice to hit some out of the park. I'm happy with our performance and happy with the win.”
The 28-year-old says he has been working hard to improve his credentials with the bat and is satisfied to see the work in the nets paying off, especially when it really mattered for the team.
He showed his potential with a fighting 69 in the second Sunfoil Test match against England at PCC Newlands earlier this year, and has made a serious stake for the all-rounder position after only 11 ODI's.
“I've put in a lot of hard work on my batting in the last couple of months,” he said. “Since I moved to the Titans I have done a lot of work on my batting where there is a lot of belief pumped into you as a player, especially from the coach Rob Walter. He believes in you as a player and pushes you 100%. “The amount of effort Russell (Domingo) and the coaches put in has been great,” he added.
“Our guys have thrown a millions balls to me and in the end, it has to pay off, fortunately, tonight it was my turn to show off that I am pushing for that all-rounder spot. I'm just happy to be playing cricket.”
The win means that the Proteas have maintained their unbeaten record in all pink ODI's, which have been superbly supported by a spirited sold-out crowd at the Bullring.
Proteas captain, AB de Villiers, says although the squad is high in confidence and belief, they will have to start from zero come Sunday.
“Hopefully, we have enough confidence and momentum on our side to take to Newlands,” De Villiers said. “Once again, like I always mention, the game will start at 0-0 on Sunday. We have to find a way to get the momentum going on the day.” - African News Agency (ANA)