“It’s an opportunity for the guys on the fringes,” said Proteas bowling coach, Charl Langeveldt, in his address to the media ahead of the final and series-deciding ODI between South Africa and Pakistan at SuperSport Park, Centurion. 

Without the services of Quinton de Kock, David Miller, Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje, and Lungi Ngidi, the opportunity to play in a high-pressure series decider will test South Africa’s bench strength. Langeveldt believes this game is an opportunity for some of the younger players to showcase their skills, given there is a World Cup to be played in 2023. “We want to see that if the big names get injured, someone is there to step up. Tomorrow is another opportunity for them to step up and perform,” said Langeveldt. 

Langeveldt confirmed that Daryn Dupavillon would be playing in place of Anrich Nortje. Slated to perform the role of the enforcer in the middle overs just like Nortje did, Langeveldt explained that Dupavillon would be required to be aggressive in the middle overs and take wickets. While the team management is yet to decide on the final eleven, Langeveldt hinted that Keshav Maharaj could take the field as well. 

Langeveldt explained that Andile Phehlukwayo is integral to the South African bowling attack. His role has been to bowl in pressure situations, and he has generally done well. Langeveldt is working with Phehlukwayo to display more consistency early on in his first spell. The team management is working towards ensuring that Proteas skipper, Temba Bavuma, has at least three death bowling options. 

Reflecting on the recently-concluded T20 competition, Langeveldt was impressed with the skill of the bowlers, albeit they played in bowling-friendly conditions. Langeveldt hopes to work with bowlers in the off-season in preparation for the next World Cup.