In the second instalment of ‘The Rundown’ series, Robin Peterson claims Dewald Brevis can play international cricket right now, discusses how time has triggered key Proteas, and says there’s an argument for Temba Bavuma’s captaincy trumping his form.

Dewald Brevis scored 162 off 57 balls, including 13 sixes, against the Free State Knights in the T20 Challenge match on Monday. Praise for the 19-year-old’s innings was widespread and included a “Dewald Brevis. No need to say more” declaration from his cricketing hero, AB de Villiers.

The performance sparked debate about Brevis’ readiness for international cricket. Senior contributor Ryan Vrede wrote in April that the Proteas selectors should be brave and pick him in the World Cup squad. Others, including former Proteas opener Herschelle Gibbs, argue that he needs time to mature his game in first-class cricket.

Peterson, however, agrees that the kid is ready right now. He has high praise for Brevis, observing that he appears to be ahead of where De Villiers was at the same age.

He also chats about embattled Proteas skipper Bavuma, explaining that while runs on the board must be the primary measure of the man, he has experienced a scenario where leadership was so important to the team dynamic that performances were secondary.