“When we have been put under immense pressure, we haven’t responded well. Yesterday, we got rattled,” said Proteas Head Coach, Mark Boucher, in his assessment of South Africa’s loss to Pakistan in the third T20 at SuperSport Park, Centurion. 

Reflecting on the positives, Boucher praised Aiden Markram’s batting through the series, Lizaad William’s bowling and energy on the field, and Sisanda Magala’s performance, particularly in the second T20. Of concern to Boucher is the team’s response when the players are put under pressure. “We weren’t as smart as we should have been,” said Boucher. 

Kyle Verreyne’s exclusion from the T20 series has raised a number of eyebrows, with some citing a provincial bias. Boucher explained, “There’s no political bias. With regards to Kyle, he was selected as a backup wicket-keeper to Heinrich Klaasen. Kyle had a very good last one-day. T20 is a bit different.”

After South Africa’s T20 competition, Boucher sat with the selectors, and decided that “Wihan was a guy we wanted to give an opportunity to. Kyle has done well, and he’s growing as an individual as well. There are parts of his game that he can add to.” 

With South Africa’s fielding coming under intense scrutiny this series, Boucher said, “We are pushing the guys so hard in training sessions. What’s frustrating is that guys are pulling off unbelievable catches.” Emphasizing on the importance of the right attitude, Boucher said, “If attitudes are good, the fielding will get complemented by that.” 

Asked whether Boucher had conversed with AB de Villiers regarding the T20 World Cup in recent times, Boucher said they had a conversation before de Villiers departed for the IPL.

“AB wanted to perform very well at the IPL to prove that he is still a key figure in world cricket.” They are slated to talk again towards the backend of the IPL.