“We had to show up and deliver a punch,” said Proteas opening batter, Sarel Erwee, after he registered his first Test century on Day 1 of the second Test against New Zealand. 

After losing the first Test by an innings and 276 runs, South Africa scripted a remarkable turnaround to post 238/3 by the end of Day 1. 

Erwee’s knock of 108 off 221 balls was instrumental to setting South Africa’s foundation in the first innings. Dean Elgar and Aiden Markram contributed with 41 off 101 and 42 off 103 balls, respectively. 

Erwee emphasized the importance of basics in putting up strong Test performances.

“If we stick to basics, we’ll get it right more often than not.” 

Erwee explained that the wind was an important consideration throughout the day. 

“The ball swung around the whole day. It was a bit tricky for batters with our stance. Tricky for a bowler running into the bowl. Evens out the playing field.” 

Scoring his maiden Test hundred with his family watching added to Erwee’s sense of occasion, given he was considering quitting professional cricket just over two years ago. It took immense family support, as well as guidance from a sports performance psychologist to ensure that Erwee continued to play professional cricket. 

“It was a hard slog to get motivated again. All the years of hard work, all the hard slogging at the semi-pro and franchise level felt worthless at some stage. I’m very fortunate to have worked with a sports performance psychologist.”