Cape Town - Cricket South Africa has congratulated the Proteas on winning the second Sunfoil Test match against New Zealand by 204 runs and in the process the two-match series by a 1-0 margin.
“A top class performance by the Proteas,” commented CSA Chief Executive, Haroon Lorgat.
“Coach Russell Domingo, stand-in captain Faf du Plessis and all the players and management staff deserve to be warmly congratulated for a wonderful team effort in the absence of regular skipper, AB de Villiers.
“With Faf leading from the front, the way the top order performed under batting conditions that were testing throughout the match spoke volumes of their temperament and will to get back to winning ways.
“There is no need to say more about the world class quality of Dale Steyn and Vernon Philander. Back after long-term injuries, their value to our Test team and how sorely we missed them last season is beyond doubt.
“Man of the match Quinton de Kock deserves special mention for standing up to the demands of an opening batsman at the 11th hour and then producing such superb batting displays. He also took six catches in the match, some of which were quite outstanding.
“There is still more work ahead for our Test team as we look ahead to the three Test series in Australia, including a Day/Night Test in Adelaide. Our aim is to move back to the top of the ICC rankings table.
“Congratulations also to everyone involved in making Test cricket a reality at this time of year. With the heavy unseasonal rains in Durban, the Kingsmead Test match was unfortunate and we have learned from that experience,” concluded Mr. Lorgat.