Faf du Plessis says consistency in performance is the greatest challenge facing South Africa as they prepare for a 72-day tour of India in October and November.
Du Plessis, writing for Supersport.com, said the recent ODI series against New Zealand, which South Africa won 2-1, was similar to the T20 series.
‘We blew hot and cold, and I suppose consistency right now is our biggest concern. I guess the trick is to make sure you blow more hot than cold.’
He also gave an update on his knee injury, which caused him to miss the three one-day games, but Du Plessis remains confident of being fit for the India tour.
‘My focus this past week has been on trying to get my knee right. As always it’s frustrating sitting on the side-lines watching your teammates in action, but I’ve just got to get on with sorting my knee out. Unfortunately, there’s not too much to do right now, except some rehab, physio and plenty of rest.
‘I did, though, see the specialist again and will be having a second cortisone injection this week – this time into the bone – which he says should help the inflammation and get the knee to respond better.
‘As it is, I’m still on track to be ready for the India tour.’
Du Plessis praised Farhaan Behardien’s performances against New Zealand, but admitted the selectors gave some tough calls to make when he and JP Duminy returns to the side.
‘I was impressed with how Fudgie [Farhaan Behardien] played for us. He was cool, calm and collected, constructing some good innings and playing that difficult middle order position well. I’ve been in that role and it’s not an easy one, as you come in, in so many different situations, with some of them requiring you to play big shots from ball one. That is obviously risky so you can get out cheaply quite often, which obviously brings your average down and gives your critics some ammunition.
‘For me, that was the biggest positive for the Proteas in this series – the fact that Fudgie showed exactly what he can do and proved that he belongs in the team. I know that he has been on the receiving end of some criticism, but we as the players know what he can do and he’s proved over the last couple of domestic seasons that he’s one of the best finishers around.
‘I’m sure he will be honest enough to say that he hasn’t consistently performed to his potential for the Proteas and that’s why this series was so pleasing, seeing how well he played and also seeing the selection process being rewarded, with Fudgie benefitting from a run in the side.’
Read the rest of Du Plessis’ column here.
