With the exception of Imran Tahir these T20 matches are of great value for the other eight members of the South African squad who will feature in the ODI series against the Australians – here’s why:
JP Duminy
A very good opportunity to learn about captaincy in an intense environment. Already ensconced as a senior member of the ODI team, these matches will only help in aiding him become a better lieutenant for AB de Villiers.
Quinton de Kock
Get used to the conditions, both as opener and as ‘keeper, so that all this isn’t entirely foreign to him in a few months. Also the wicket-keeper plays an important advisory role in the field, so allowing him to grow in that position is crucial.
Rilee Rossouw/
Dave Miller
These two need runs – badly. Rossouw, pictured, made 47 in the warm-up match Sunday, and if that’s helped his confidence, then great, hopefully it’ll continue over the course of the week. Miller needs to build confidence by spending time at the crease first.
Wayne Parnell
Will always be something of an erratic performer – hot one day, cold the next – but the mystery X-factor is something coach Russell Domingo values. Get him through some overs and hopefully he also gets to smite the ball around some more like he did in Sydney on Sunday.
Kyle Abbott
Lonwabo Tsotsobe is having a good season at the Lions and must be in the selectors’ reckoning. Poor Abbott hasn’t had a serious bowl on tour yet. That’s all he wants, show it on TV, so that everyone can see him and hopefully for him it goes well.
Robin Petersen
Got a look in via some misfortune to Aaron Phangiso. May as well prove he’s still got it. Loves a scrap, if he does transfer his domestic form to this tour, Andrew Hudson and Co will have another player to consider ahead of their final squad selection.
Ryan McLaren
Like Parnell, has to play more. Get some rhythm going in his bowling and get a feel of bat and ball. As he’s shown in the last year, he’s an invaluable member of the side, they need him to start feeling good about himself again. - The Star