South African pacer Nandre Burger expressed his enthusiasm about the incredible experience of playing against India in the recently-concluded all-format home series. The 28-year-old pacer made his all-format debut during the series and made a notable impact with his bowling performance. Burger stood out by taking 11 wickets in two Tests, which included a four-wicket haul, five wickets in three T20Is, and one wicket in a solitary T20I, showcasing his effectiveness across formats. He also mentioned that he learned a lot during the course of the series, emphasising the valuable experience gained from playing against a strong team like India.
Burger highlighted the importance of resting and recovery after a Test series, noting that T20Is typically involve fewer overs, making it a format where players can enjoy more. He emphasised that the shorter format allows for a different kind of approach, and the more one plays, the more enjoyable it becomes. This perspective underlines the significance of managing workload and adapting strategies based on the specific demands of different formats in international cricket.
Burger acknowledged that transitioning from Test cricket to the T20 format, specifically in the context of SA20, presents its own set of challenges. Adapting to the different demands and strategies required in the shorter format can be a unique adjustment for players.
Burger also commented on the decision to send a second-string South African team to the New Zealand Test tour, which coincides with the SA20. He described the timing as unfortunate, likely referring to the clash between the two series. Despite the challenges, Burger expressed hope that the new squad, consisting largely of uncapped players and led by uncapped player Neil Brand, will perform well and make South Africa proud.
On skipper Faf Du Plessis’ leadership in JSK, Burger said that he has experience in handling a crisis. Burger said that he was disappointed to miss the first season of the SA20 due to a heel injury.
On whether JSK is underdogs against defending champions Sunrisers Eastern Cape, Burger said that it is tough to say there is an underdog in the first game of the tournament. Talking about former English batter Kevin Pietersen advising him not to smile after delivering a ball, the pacer said that he ran into Pietersen at the airport yesterday.
