Zubayr Hamza is hoping to kick on after his Test debut when the Proteas take on Sri Lanka in the two-match series, starting at Kingsmead on Wednesday.
The Cape Cobras batsman became the 100th player to represent South Africa since re-admission when he faced Pakistan in the Wanderers Test last month.
And after scoring 41, the 23-year-old is keen for bigger runs.
The right-hander comes into the Proteas camp behind the likes of Hashim Amla and Faf du Plessis in the higher middle-order pecking order.
But after scoring a 201 for the Cobras in their final 4-Day Series clash last week and 49 in their opening 1Day Cup loss at the weekend, he looks bang in form as he competes with Theunis de Bruyn and Temba Bavuma for a spot.
However, Hamza is not getting his hopes too high as he looks for a second knock for the Proteas.
He says: “I have learnt not to get too far ahead of myself.
“That has been the biggest thing for me, understanding just how much focus is required at this level.”
The Lansdowne ace though is happy to learn from his teammates in the squad as he bides his time.
Hamza has been tipped to be the long-term successor of Amla at No.3 in the Proteas batting line-up, so it’s understandable that he is keen on soaking up all the knowledge he can.
And just like building an innings out in the middle, Hamza is cool with “playing himself in” with the Proteas mindset as he gets ready for another series.
He says: “I’ve been stealing with my eye.
“I think that time allowed me to be comfortable in that environment. I have just been listening to everything, and I have picked something up from every batsman in the squad.”