“The guys here are free-spirited, and I don’t think are too fazed about being at a World Cup,” said Proteas batsman, Aiden Markram, in an interaction with the media, 12 days ahead of South Africa’s opening encounter against Australia. 

Having represented the Punjab Kings in the second leg of the Indian Premier League, Markram got first-hand knowledge of the conditions on offer. “Each ground was different in terms of how the wicket played,” said Markram. Sharjah was the most challenging wicket for run-scoring, while Abu Dhabi was most batting-friendly. 

Based on his experience in the UAE, thus far, Markram believes captains will have to deploy their bowling resources wisely. For instance, spinners need to be introduced to the bowling attack at the right time.

“Bowling them (spinners) in the wrong period has backfired.” Additionally, Markram said, “Teams have used change of pace in the IPL.” 

Almost all the games that Markram played in the IPL went down to the wire. “It can help. All our games were incredibly close. We would have liked to get over the line,” said Markram. “Nice challenge and a lot of learning that took place,” he said. 

According to Markram, developing tactical awareness is “the biggest challenge of batting in the middle order.” While there are times when Markram has the license to accelerate, there are other times where he has to consolidate. “In terms of guys who finish games well, it’s something I have a lot of new appreciation for.” 

Markram is playing his second World Cup for the Proteas. Compared to 2019, where the team were unable to execute a change in plans, Markram said it is crucial for the team to have faith in Plan B if their preferred strategy does not work on the day. “If conditions on the day don’t allow (for the implementation of Plan A), we have to be smarter,” said Markram.