Proteas coach Mark Boucher believes the IPL experience for several South African players in the UAE will serve the team well ahead of the T20 World Cup.
The IPL starts on Sunday, with Quinton de Kock’s Mumbai Indians taking on Ngidi’s Chennai Super Kings (4pm SA time).
The wicketkeeper-batsman is one of seven Proteas players who will be involved in the IPL, which also includes Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje, David Miller, Aiden Markram and Tabraiz Shamsi, with fast bowler Lungi Ngidi already in the Middle East.
“We’ve spoken to the guys going off to the IPL. They need to stay disciplined and we realise that we want to peak at the right time as a unit,” said Boucher.
“There are a couple of things that I’ve spoken to individuals that they can work on, but more to pick up information when playing in those kinds of conditions. It’s going to get them ready for a big tournament.
“I’m not too sure who is going to play what games, but if they manage themselves well and get some time in the nets and used to the facilities, it’ll stand us in good stead.”
Temba Bavuma will lead the Proteas at the T20 global showpiece taking place in the United Arab Emirates and Oman from 23 October to 14 November, with South Africa playing in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah.
“We believe we have the players to be able to put out successful combinations in terms of the conditions that we’ll face in the UAE.”
