“We learnt quite a bit coming here,” said Proteas fast bowler, Anrich Nortje, in his reflections on the first Test between South Africa and Pakistan in Karachi, and how those lessons will be implemented in the second Test in Rawalpindi. 

“Patience was very key in that game,” reflected Nortje. He felt the team executed their plans well in stages, but were “off the mark” at other times.

“Can’t be searching for wickets, that’s one thing I got out of it,” said Nortje. With the learnings from the first Test, Nortje hopes to implement them in the second Test.

He explained that the team had a conversation at the end of the first game, and discussed the positives as well as areas for improvement. “We’re quite clear on what we need to achieve,” stated Nortje. 

Describing some of the off-field challenges the team has been facing, Nortje said, “it’s been difficult staying inside the room.”

Some of the players, including Nortje, have struggled with stomach bugs, which is often the case with overseas teams touring the subcontinent. However, the team is trying to make the most out of the situation it is in, with players engaging in card and online games. 

Nortje reiterated the loss in the first Test did not dampen the mood of the team. “If anything, it has brought more energy and positivity in the group,” he said.