Hard Work Paying Off For De Zorzi
South African top-order batter Tony de Zorzi produced an assured and commanding performance in the second One-Day International against Pakistan.
Although he narrowly missed out on a well-deserved century, his elegant innings underlined the calmness that has become a trademark of his game.
Reflecting on the conditions, De Zorzi said the wicket offered a much better surface for batting compared to the opening game on Tuesday.
“The conditions were better for batting in the evening in this game. In the first game, the wicket was slower, but under lights, the ball came on quicker. It’ll be interesting to see how it behaves in the next game and which pitch they decide to play on.”
Batting alongside Quinton de Kock, who reached a fluent hundred, was a special experience. “Batting with Quinny is special when he’s in full flight. He hits the ball everywhere and is so instinctive. He gave me lots of advice during the partnership, which was critical,” De Zorzi said.
De Zorzi seemed appreciative that he was part of the setup and insisted he is willing to adapt to whatever role the team requires, not having a particular favourite spot to bat.
“Anywhere the team needs me. Personally, I do not have a preferred spot; I’m just happy to play for South Africa. We have a good team, so sometimes that means you have to move around, and I am skilled enough to do that depending on the situation or what the coach and captain need.”
After a clinical all-round performance that saw South Africa dominate with bat, ball, and in the field, De Zorzi believes the result will boost confidence.
“It was an all-round performance. A lot of individuals could take personal confidence from the game. The coach asked for a complete performance, and we’re happy we could deliver it.”
The batter also spoke candidly about navigating through rough patches in form. “It’s about being able to detach yourself from the results. You don’t become a bad cricketer overnight. You’ve got to go back to what works for you, on and off the field. A lot of hard work happens behind the scenes that people don’t see. Sometimes that work doesn’t bring instant results, but you need to keep doing it – that’s what I focused on.”
De Zorzi admitted he initially struggled to find his timing early in the innings, with dew and atmospheric conditions playing a role. “The dew definitely came into play. The air quality and wind were different from the first game, so there was more dew last night. I struggled in the beginning, but Quinny kept telling me, ‘If you get through this, it’ll come together.’ Once I felt it, I was able to switch gears.”
De Zorzi admitted that coach Shukri Conrad did not have a specific conversation with him that reinforced his backing from the coach. “The coach doesn’t need to say, ‘I’ll back you.’ If you’re picked, that already says a lot. That’s the biggest show of confidence.”
Off the field, De Zorzi highlighted the tight-knit nature of the young South African squad.
“It’s a pretty young group, so guys stay connected and try not to isolate themselves in their rooms. Some play cards or poker – we’ve got a few pranksters too. I enjoy reading. We usually have breakfast and lunch together, and the support staff are the unsung heroes. They provide a level of consistency as human beings you can always rely on.”
South Africa’s all-format tour to Pakistan comes to an end on Saturday when the decisive third and final One Day International takes place, with De Zorzi’s form and mindset proving a reflection of his hard work.
