Johannesburg – Proteas debutantes Reeza Hendricks and Kagiso Rabada are eagerly awaiting the start of the three-match T20 International series against Australia in Adelaide on Wednesday.
The Proteas begin their preparations with a warm-up T20 match against a Cricket Australia XI at the North Sydney Oval on Sunday, a match that will offer the pair an opportunity to dust off the cobwebs ahead of the series.
The explosive Hendricks said his call-up was unexpected, but hoped he could transfer his domestic form onto the international stage.
“Hopefully I can contribute with good performances for the team, with the series win against Australia being the main goal,” said Hendricks.
Rabada's career has moved at a fast pace since his spectacular performances for South Africa at the under-19 World Cup in Dubai in February.
He has played 22 first-class matches across the three formats for the Highveld Lions, represented South Africa A and was called up to shadow the Proteas in Zimbabwe in August, all of which has culminated with an international call-up at the age of 19.
“It's a very welcoming environment. I didn't for a second feel like I was a newcomer,” Rabada said.
“Everyone here is treated the same and everyone is always willing to help out. It's a great team culture to be part of.” – Sapa