Coach attributes self-awareness to South Africa’s seven-game winning streak in T20I
Just as they are on a roll, they will take a break. And it couldn’t have come at a worse time.
“This team has realized that we are definitely not the finished product, so there is a lot that we are talking about,†said Boucher. “We had a good discussion about the lessons we’ve learned and where we want to go as a team. We tied the record for most T20 wins by a South African team. It was one records that we were playing for. We understand that before a World Cup every game is as important as the next and it becomes a habit. It’s part of the growth of the team. “
Their opportunity to break that record and add an eighth victory will come on October 23, when they face Australia in the opener of the T20 World Cup. By then, half the squad will return home to South Africa to compete in a T20 knockout national cup and prepare for the tournament while the other half will head to the IPL.
“We talked to the guys who go to IPL. They have to stay disciplined enough and realize that we want to get to the top at the right time as a unit, â€said Boucher. “They will gather information about playing in these conditions that will really set them up for a big tournament and if they do well, have a good time in the nets and get used to the facilities it will keep us going. great experience as long as the guys take care of themselves and peak at the right time. “
De Kock was South Africa’s top scorer and continues to benefit from being released from the captain position. “Quinny went through a rough time after (the) Pakistan (tour in February) but since joining he has been fantastic in the team environment. You can’t keep a player like that for too long,” said Boucher. . . “He’s been in a very happy space. He’s a big name for the World Cup so the fact that he’s in the form he is is good.”
And Markram, who was signed as a replacement player for Dawid Malan at Punjab Kings, has not only become flexible enough to hit anywhere in the first order, but as a versatile option under spinner-friendly conditions. He finished as the second main pitcher in the series. “Aiden has grown a lot in his game and now has different options,†said Boucher.
“With Keshav it’s not his first roadshow. He’s been there, especially in conditions like this. He has a good feel for the game,” said Boucher. “The communication, trust and trust he has in the spinners, especially the trust he has shown in Aiden, Aiden has nurtured himself and produced the goods. The way he has treated his spinners and them players was excellent. He has great leadership that holds us up in good stead. “
Firdose Moonda is ESPNcricinfo’s correspondent in South Africa
