South Africa have seen a lot of changes in their squad in recent times. However, according to captain Quinton de Kock, they need to find the right balance between youth and experience as well. He also applauded the performance of the new bowlers in their 45-run first Test win over Sri Lanka on Tuesday.
South Africa convincingly win the game right after the lunch on the fourth day at Centurion Park. It was their first test victory in a year which came on the back of a new-look bowling attack that has improved a lot in recent times as well.
However, not only the bowlers but the former captain Faf du Plessis' stunning 199 is equally praiseworthy in their victory.
"You need to find that balance (between youth and experience) and Faf came out and showed his leadership qualities. He has been in a lot of pressure situations and there is no better player in the team for that," said De Kock to the reporters.
The pace attack of Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, Wiaan Mulder and Lutho Sipamla did exceptionally well with only 12 test appearances between them, but the latter two were quite impressive too. Sipamla claimed four wickets in the innings and finished with six in the match as well.
"(Mulder’s) results speak for themselves, any team with an all-rounder that can add value with the ball and the bat is always key. It was great to see a youngster come out and bowl with maturity and intent," he shared. "It was just test match debut nerves. We spoke to him and he came back really nicely. He showed great character and it was great to see his fight."
On the other hand, fully-fit Kagiso Rabada is all set to return for the second test in Johannesburg, which is slated to begin on January 3. It will be interesting to see who will be replaced by him in the game.
