Former Proteas captain AB de Villiers has implored South Africa not to ‘put unnecessary pressure’ on fast bowler Lutho Sipamla.

De Villiers captained Sipamla at the Tshwane Spartans during the Mzansi Super League. The youngster was the franchise’s joint leading wicket-taker alongside Sri Lanka spinner Jeevan Mendis, with 16 in 10 matches.

‘I am very impressed with him. I think he has all the credentials to become a serious fast bowler for South Africa in the future,’ TimesLIVE quoted De Villiers as saying.

‘He is a fantastic kid. He has the right head on his shoulders and he needs to be given proper guidance and support to learn and improve over the next few years. I am looking forward to watch him grow.’

The 20-year-old took three wickets in a match on four occasions, three of which were at SuperSport Park in Centurion.

‘When I was selected‚ I saw this as an opportunity for young players to do well and learn from great players such as AB and others,’ added Sipamla.

‘I have not put a set target as to when I want to play for the Proteas‚ but it remains a goal of mine to play for the senior national team one day. If it happens quickly‚ or over the next five or six months‚ so be it‚ but I hope to one day play for the Proteas.’

Photo: Gallo