Dylan Bettencourt
“We didn’t expect the heatwave in England at this time but we felt at home,” said Proteas captain Keshav Maharaj after their victory over the hosts.
They scored 333 runs with only five wickets lost in blazing sunshine that sent temperatures soaring to 40 degrees celsius.
England’s batting team were no match for the Proteas bowlers as South Africa recorded a 62-run victory.
Rassie van der Dussen, who scored a career high 134, agreed with his captain that the conditions worked in their favour.
“It was pretty hot, but we are used to it. It was dry and windy,” said van der Dussen.
Although the team felt the conditions favoured them, Van der Duseen still left the field while England were batting due to dehydration.
Maharaj praised the batsman for controlling the game with his impressive score.
“The boys were clinical. Rassie set the tone with the bat and the rest followed,” Maharaj said.
“Rassie set up the tempo and Aiden came in and carried on. Markram’s bowling is underrated and I’m happy he got his reward.”
Van der Dussen said they came into this series knowing they have to play smart cricket.
“Physically it was hard but the game plan was to get into a good position and run hard,” Van der Dussen said.
“Markram played brilliantly. All the guys who came in showed great intent. We are pretty happy with the batting effort.”
The Proteas will take to the field on Friday with the opportunity to close out the series if they claim victory at Old Trafford Stadium.
Image source: @ICC
