Test Cricket has always been the ultimate challenge for cricketers. Whether bowling or batting is your preferred discipline, the intensity of Test cricket is undeniable.

We have seen in the past how incredibly talented domestic cricketers have not been able to make that all-important transition to Test cricket.

I wanted to get an understanding of this intensity and I also wanted to get an analysis of the difference between 4-Day domestic cricket and the Test arena.

So I began my planning. I wanted to get the perfect blend of talent and determination.

So, we start off by chatting with Test captain Dean Elgar, who gave us a true understanding of the struggle some players go through when coming through the system in red-ball cricket.

Not only has Elgar lived the struggle first hand, but as the captain of the Proteas during this new era he has seen young and domestically-experienced players come into the setup and fail to show their true ability.

We also spoke to two important newer players – Sarel Erwee and Keegan Petersen – who have toiled away domestically for years before getting their opportunities at the international level.

However, to truly understand the intensity of red-ball cricket, we spoke to the coach of this year’s champions, the Titans, Mandla Mashimbyi. He has an incredible understanding of South African cricket due to his experience in the game as a coach.

He also has worked with some of South Africa’s current best players as well as future stars. He gives us his observation on what is needed to become a Test player.

In this issue, we focus on the intensity of Test cricket and what we can do domestically in red-ball cricket to make the transition for players easier.

So sit back, grab a beverage and a snack, and enjoy issue 21 of Cricket Fanatics Magazine.