Proteas quick Ngidi fires Test warning
Joel Gould |
South Africa speedster Lungi Ngidi has fired an early warning shot ahead of the first Test against Australia at the Gabba as he targets taking early wickets in tandem with inspirational spearhead Kagiso Rabada.
Ngidi (3-26 off nine overs) showed what a dangerous bowler he is with a frightening first-up spell against a Cricket Australia XI at Allan Border Field, taking three early wickets.
Rabada snared one and the CA XI were 4-25 at one stage before recovering to make 226 in response to the Proteas first innings total of 347.
The experienced Rabada had a fruitful tour of Australia in the Proteas’ 2-1 series win in 2016-17, taking 15 wickets.
He has not looked back on his way to 257 Test wickets.
Ngidi, who has 49 wickets in 15 Tests at an average of 21.61, said Rabada’s success on the last tour was a boost to the squad.
“That is a massive inspiration and as the spearhead of our bowling attack he is going to lead by example,” Ngidi said.
“A lot of our guys follow suit with that. There are a lot of youngsters here who can make their names on this tour and that is something we will be looking to do as well.
“Having (Rabada) in our change-room is a massive motivation and booster for us going out to play against Australia.”
The 26-year-old Ngidi, who has been playing Test cricket since 2018, has a plan of attack for the Gabba Test which starts on December 17.
“I’m not going to try and go over the top. Keep it simple. That is what worked for me over the years,” he said.
“We know Australia is known for their fast bowlers as well so to come here as a fast bowler you are really excited for what is on offer.
“I’ve never played (at the Gabba) … so I am looking forward to bowling there.
“You are saying it is a fast bowlers’ paradise, so I have got a big smile on my face.”
The South African is looking forward to testing his bowling against Australian run machines Steve Smith, Marnus Labuschagne, Usman Khawaja and Travis Head.
“Test cricket is not supposed to be easy,” he said.
“Those guys are in good form. We are also going to go out there and bowl … you land the ball in the right areas and anything can happen.
“It is exciting knowing that guys are having their purple patches just as we get here.
“Once we get out there and the battle starts everyone is going to see what happens.”
AAP
