“Slumps” are a unavoidable part of the process of learning and growing, says Khaya Zondo, in defense of the struggling Proteas top six. | ✍️ @imongamagcwabe
In three Tests, the Proteas have had three different number threes in their batting order. Rassie van der Dussen (first Test), Theunis de Bruyn (second Test) and Heinrich Klaasen (third Test), all had a go at the vacant number three spot on this tour.
A vacancy left by the prolific Keegan Petersen who was unfortunately injured weeks before the Australia tour. The side has struggled in his absence, hence the lack of continuity for that number three position.
Khaya Zondo has stressed that the inexperience factor should not be seen an excuse but a fact that cannot be overlooked. The 32-year-old is only playing in his fifth Test (4th if you don’t consider his 2-hour Test debut).
“Yes it’s been difficult and the small things aren’t going our way, but we’re still growing,” said Zondo.
Zondo also lamented that they are not falling short because of lack of effort or determination.
“The guys are just trying. They’re pushing and working on their games.”
Despite all the effort, they still don’t have positive returns on this tour, even in England despite the historic win at Lord’s.
Zondo expressed that the patch they found themselves in as batters is all part of the process to being a successful Test team.
“I’ve played for a while to know that you will go through patches. It happens like that,” he added.
Considering the teams the Proteas have played so far, fact is, they are by no means average teams. They have World Class players who have tons of experience. All these are important factors and are unavoidable as Zondo expressed.
“I’m sure players who have played international cricket for a long time, they’ve also had slumps either as a team or personally. It’s one of those things you can’t run away from because it’s part of the process of learning and growing,” said Zondo.
On a more personal note, Zondo has looked decent for his two 30s on this tour. He’s shown glimpses of belonging at Test level despite his failure to convert those two starts into big scores.
It has been a baptism of fire for Zondo having faced England in England and then Australia in Australia in his careers so far. For any new player, it is a steep mountain to climb. Instead, Zondo sees opportunity for growth.
“It’s a short international career. I’ve only played against two top countries in terms of Test cricket and it’s been at their home grounds,” said Zondo.
“It’s been a good experience. It’s given me comfort that I’m able to play against the best. I’m able to hold my own. It’s just matter of getting time, learning and then dominating one day.
“It’s one of those things where you tell yourself that: ‘If you can go through this year as a Test player, then you can play at this level.’
“After facing all these big teams, you should have that confidence. Then moving forward it’s about you performing and taking every opportunity that’s afforded to you,” he added.
The main question for you cricket fanatics:
Do you blood in new batters or do you back the current top six moving forward?
