Lungi Ngidi is Ready to Lead Proteas Attack

Proteas fast bowler Lungi Ngidi is fit and eager to lead South Africa’s pace attack in their upcoming One-Day International (ODI) series against Afghanistan in the UAE this week.

This will be South Africa’s first ODI series since their 2-1 home defeat to India in December. With Kagiso Rabada, Gerald Coetzee, and Marco Jansen rested, Ngidi will spearhead the Proteas’ bowling lineup, supported by Ottniel Baartman, Nandre Burger, and Lizaad Williams. Wiaan Mulder also presents a new-ball option, while uncapped Dolphins all-rounders Andile Simelane and Jason Smith may contribute with the ball.

Ngidi's role will be critical in setting the tone with the new ball, especially against an aggressive Afghanistan batting lineup. However, the Titans pacer is confident in his experience and comfortable with the responsibility of leading the attack, something he’s done frequently in various cricket leagues around the world.

"I wouldn’t say it’s anything new [leading the attack]. Playing in a lot of teams globally, sometimes you slot in as a senior player. It’s a familiar role for me," said Ngidi. "The other guys are being rested, so whoever is here must step into the role. I’m hoping to help the guys where I can by sharing the knowledge I’ve gained."

Ngidi has faced several injury setbacks since the 2023 Cricket World Cup, most recently missing the second Test and T20I series against the West Indies. After returning to action with the Titans and playing in warm-up matches ahead of this series, Ngidi is taking a philosophical approach to his time on the sidelines.

"Injuries happen—it probably won’t be my last one—and you take it in stride," Ngidi noted. "If I’m not ready to play, then I’m not ready. But now that I am, the coaches have given me the go-ahead, and I’m here."

The three-match ODI series against Afghanistan will be held in Sharjah on Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday, with all matches starting at 2 PM SA time.