The stage is set for the knockout stages of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026. The 1st semi-final of the tournament will see New Zealand taking on South Africa. The two sides will lock horns at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata on March 4. Ahead of the clash, many eyes would be set upon South Africa skipper Aiden Markram.
The star batter has been in exceptional form of late and has been one of the most important players in South Africa’s batting attack. Speaking of his form, former South Africa cricketer Faf du Plessis came forward and talked about how Markram batting in the top order for Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL has played a big role in him finding his form.
"I think what was really good in terms of his own game is the [IPL 2025] season where he opened for LSG and the IPL almost demanded that you needed to play in that way in order for you to keep your place. It was obviously the Impact-Sub [rule] and the way the game was moving. As an opener, you couldn't play the old-school way anymore,” Faf du Plessis said on ESPNcricinfo's TimeOut show.
"So, if you were in that first six [overs] and you didn't do your job by going after the ball, they would get someone else,” he added.
Du Plessis hailed Markram’s flexibility as a batter
Furthermore, Du Plessis talked about how Markram fit South Africa’s plans smoothly, transitioning himself into an opener, and heaped praise on him for his flexibility as a batter.
"Aiden almost fell into that in terms of like, 'I'm gonna have to up the ante in terms of strike rate and play beautifully'. A good season, a couple of impactful knocks, and since then the adjustment was made from him from No.3 or 4 to opening. Now, it's an incredible skill to be flexible as a batter,” he added.
Also Read:
