Proteas Confident Ahead Of The ODI Series Against India
In the wake of the Proteas’ impressive performances over the past two weeks, spirits within the South African camp are understandably high.
A significant Test victory clean sweep has injected renewed belief into the squad heading into the One Day International series against India, according to fast bowler Nandre Burger.
Despite it being a different format, this belief reaffirms their ambition to dominate world cricket across all three formats.
“The mood in the camp is very exciting,” Burger explained. “The Test win is incredible and great for South African cricket.”
As the team prepares for the ODI series, there is a clear awareness of the challenge that awaits them. Facing India on home soil is never an easy task, and the Proteas are bracing for a strong response from the hosts.
“Everyone is going to compete to win,” Burger said. “It’s in their backyard, so we expect them to come out firing. We’re also playing to win, so I’m expecting a good series – and hopefully it’s good to watch.”
Proteas captain Temba Bavuma mentioned that he hadn’t expected the Test series to unfold the way it did. When asked whether that same belief carries into the ODI series, Burger acknowledged the different squad composition but insisted the mindset remains unchanged.
“It’s a different team, but everyone will always believe. The belief to win the series is always there – and that is why we show up to play.”
Reflecting on his personal road back into the side, the player spoke about his injury struggles and aspirations to return to Test cricket.
He admitted that this ODI series offers a valuable opportunity, but emphasized that his return to red-ball cricket is still a work in progress.
“It’s great to be back, but it’s a different format. It has been a long journey, and I’m still on the journey to get back into red-ball cricket. I need to get to a point where I can trust my back. Hopefully, I get a chance to do that soon. Test cricket is the format I love the most.”
Burger revealed a stress fracture as the reason for the setback.
“I think I’m 100% fit now and ready to go,” he said. “Pakistan was a huge stepping stone for me to build my confidence back. I needed to get to a point where I could trust my body again, and in Pakistan I felt ready.”
Looking ahead, the Proteas see the upcoming series not only as a chance to win, but also as a building block toward future goals – including the next 50-over World Cup.
“We want to win but also gain experience. Many of us have not played much, so this is a chance to grow and build toward the next World Cup. A series win would be great for our confidence.”
While Burger does not know what to expect from the wicket in Ranchi, he expressed excitement about facing India’s top-order giants.
“I’ve not played against Virat (Kohli) or Rohit (Sharma) in ODI cricket yet. You always want to play against the best – against people ranked at the top in the world. The whole team is looking forward to competing against India in their backyard and making the country proud.”
South Africa play India in the first of three ODIs at the JSCA International Stadium Complex on Sunday, starting at 10:00.
