Dewald Brevis’ genius set the world alight yesterday with a record-breaking 162. Prasanna Agoram argues that the youngster is an exception and should get in the Proteas T20 setup as soon as possible | ✍️ @imongamagcwabe
South Africa’s seen many talented youngsters over the years, but none can quite compare with what we’ve seen from Brevis.
To go with his talent, the youngster is humble but confident in his abilities at the same time.
“I’ve always believed. Even last year I believed I was ready but I trust the people in charge and I believe that they will make the right decisions. So whenever that time comes, I’ll be ready,” Brevis told the media after scoring the third-highest score in T20 cricket.
When a young guy is performing, like Brevis is at domestic level, conversations and debates on whether he is ready for international cricket are almost guaranteed. One guy who’s been quite vocal about Brevis’ readiness is former Proteas performance analyst, Prasanna Agoram.
Agoram has been unwavering in his support for the youngster to be given an opportunity up top, even before his ridiculous 162 yesterday.
“When you see a youngster and there’s not too much stats to back him, the most important thing is whether he is technically sound, he’s got a bold approach. Is he fearless? Yes,” said Agoram.
“His body language is positive. The way he conducts himself on the field without any nerves, so that he can compete with the big blockbuster cricketers in the world without any fear and intimidation. When you tick all these boxes, these are the guys you don’t have to wait a long time to get into the fold,” he added.
Agoram has been in the mix of some big selection decisions in his ten years with the Proteas. Among those big decisions includes Keshav Maharaj making his Test debut down under against the best team in the world at the time. Also, with Kagiso Rabada making his ODI and Test debut, Agoram was part of the management that made that happen.
“That’s exactly what happened with Kagiso Rabada when I told Hussein Manack and Linda Zondi, and they got him in immediately. He got a debut and an ODI hat trick when people were saying he’s raw, he’s too young to be getting into the fold of things,” said Agoram.
“Dewald Brevis is certainly one that needs to be roped in straight away. His leg spin is improving all the time and on his day he can bowl two overs which will be crucial with Markram bowling one over. That will give the Proteas room to play seven batters and four bowlers which is ideal in T20 cricket,” he concluded.
