Nadine de Klerk hailed the performance of the Proteas bowlers during the World Cup.

The Proteas attack was sensational throughout the World Cup, having four of the top 10 wicket-takers at the event.

Most notably, Dane van Niekerk (15) and Marizanne Kapp (13) occupied first and second-place respectively.

With statistics as good as these, few would disagree with De Klerk’s opinion on how the Proteas stack up against other lineups.

‘The way everyone chipped in and bowled throughout the tournament was something to admire. I’m not joking when I say that this is the best bowling side in the world,’ remarked De Klerk.

‘They are ruthless and extremely strict in how they prepare, and for someone like me coming in brand new it was intimidating, but mostly inspiring. I want to have a work ethic like that.’

Though the Proteas bowed out to hosts and eventual champions England, De Klerk hopes to bring the fighting spirit that the side showed to her own game.

‘Going into the semi-final and fighting like that was never easy, and I would just like to learn how to do that and win games for my province and my country.

‘It was tense when the games were tense and watching how some of the team handled the pressure taught me a lot. I’ve taken a lot home with me.’

The World Cup experience has left the 17-year-old keen to improve and retain her place in the squad.

‘My school [Hoërskool Waterkloof in Pretoria] has been so supportive and I’m excited to be back and show what I’ve learned.

‘It’s time to balance the school books with the cricket again, but after my experience at the World Cup, I’m going to work extra hard on the cricket to make sure that I don’t lose my place. It’s not every day that someone as young as me literally gets to live their dream,’ she said.

 De Klerk has made four appearances for the Proteas, capturing two wickets at an average of 40.00.