Proteas fast bowler Vernon Philander is feeling the pressure ahead of their first Test against India at the Rajasekhara Reddy Stadium on Wednesday (6am).
The 34-year-old will take the field on Wednesday for the first time since long-term bowling partner Dale Steyn’s retirement from the five-day arena.
Leading the bowling attack alongside fellow speedster Kagiso Rabada means Philander has to be at his best on the slow, dusty pitches of India.
With the Proteas fielding a new squad under coach Enoch Nkwe, Philander says: “A lot of players will be under pressure.
“The spotlight will be on a lot of big players to make a statement.”
PRESSURE: Enoch Nkwe understands his player's are feeling the pressure. Picture: Muzi Ntombela/BackpagePix.
To make that statement, South Africa will have to hit first and hit hard according to the Capetonian.
He adds: “[We have to] give the first punch.
“India are expected to do well and we’re known as a team that starts slow. This time we need a fast start.”
The match also marks South Africa’s first in the new ICC Test Championships.
%%%twitter https://twitter.com/hashtag/ProteaFire?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ProteaFire #INDvSA pic.twitter.com/FlK5VtXKKZ
— Cricket South Africa (@OfficialCSA)
And a fast start in the two-year battle for Test supremacy is exactly what they need.
Philander says of the tournament: “The Championship brings a new dimension.
“It is a tough start India in India.
“But as South Africans wouldn’t want it any other way.
“There is great excitement around the Test championship.”