Aiden Markram is fighting for his place in the Proteas’ ODI squad as they gear up for the three-match series against Pakistan.
Recalled to the 50-over squad ahead of Friday’s start of the series at Centurion Park at 10am, Markram last played for the Proteas in this format of the game back in 2019.
With only 643 runs to his name in 26 matches at an average of 28 with a high score of 67*, the 26-year-old knows time is running out to prove that he should be a regular in the Proteas’ top four in white-ball cricket.
Of his recall to the side, Markram says: “I wasn’t expecting a call-up. I understand my white-ball game for the Proteas hasn’t been where I want it to be and I’m just grateful to be here.
“White-ball cricket is something that I thoroughly enjoy and I’m glad that they still see me in the white-ball plans.
“Whether I play or not, at least it [the call-up] is a step in the right direction for myself in white-ball cricket.”
With the Proteas starting their journey to the 2023 World Cup under the captaincy of Temba Bavuma, Markram knows he still has some work-ons if he wants be in coach Mark Boucher’s plans.
He explains: “I still need to do a lot [of work to get my game up to the desired level].
“It’s been a while since I played 50-over cricket. I was injured for most of the domestic tournament, so I’m looking at getting back to the game plans that I used when things were going well for me.
“I’ve played loads of red-ball cricket since I’ve been back from injury and not too much white-ball, so I think it’s more just addressing the plans from the mental side of things – not technical.
“Then just back options that I believe will work for me in the conditions we come across.”