Wayne Parnell says building up to winning the ICC Champions Trophy is their focus as they prepare for Wednesday’s second ODI against Sri Lanka in Durban.
The Proteas will use their form against Sri Lanka and then New Zealand as momentum leading up to the global tournament.
Parnell emphasised the Proteas’ hunger for continuing their seven-match ODI winning streak.
‘Winning is ultimately why we play the game. Our short term goal is ICC Champions Trophy, we want to win an ICC event,’ said Parnell.
‘We first have the next four matches to think about and we need to dominate them (Sri Lanka) seeing that we will face them in the tournament.
‘I am happy to contribute to the team’s success. It’s an important ODI series for us leading into New Zealand and the ICC Champions Trophy after that.’
He does, however, believe his side need to be wary of a backlash from their opponents.
‘I expect them to bounce back,’ he said.
‘Every venue poses a different challenge. We have to wait and see what Durban has to offer and then move on to the next venue.
‘In PE I felt that we executed our plan nicely and Imran Tahir was world class as he always is.
‘This is probably our strongest squad. We implemented what worked in the past; using our home advantage and being smarter than them. I think taking care of their big players is what we focus on.’
The 27-year-old was happy with his recent performances which saw him play a Test, a T20 series and an ODI against Sri Lanka after some time on the sidelines.
‘After being out of the team for a period of time I had to go back to domestic cricket and figure out what I need to do to get back into the national side and stay here. It’s been going nicely over the past for few months and the past few seasons,’ said Parnell.
‘Game time is key. Practicing every day doesn’t have the same effect as playing week in week out. I don’t mind if I’m here or playing for the Cobras; it’s about putting in performances and sticking to processes. That’s what is driving me. ‘
PHOTO: Anesh Debiky/Gallo Images
