Before the second Test at ZA Chowdhury Stadium, the last time three or more South African batters scored hundreds in a single innings was against Bangladesh in Bloemfontein, 2017. Dean Elgar, Faf du Plessis, Aiden Markram, and Hashim Amla then reached triple figures, helping the Proteas post a dominant 575/6. Fast forward to the present, and this current generation of Proteas batters is making its mark, led by players like Tony de Zorzi, who scored a career-best 177.
Five of South Africa’s front-line batters, including de Zorzi, have fewer than 10 Test matches under their belts. "We’ve had to learn quickly on the job,” he shared. Limited Test opportunities mean these batters rely on international experiences, including T20 leagues, to accelerate their development. With guidance from veterans like Markram and Temba Bavuma, along with coaching insights from Ashwell Prince, younger players have adapted and thrived.
The mental endurance required to bat on favourable surfaces, as de Zorzi demonstrated during his seven-hour stint at the crease, is a defining feature of this new generation. Wiaan Mulder added his own unbeaten 105, marking his first Test century and highlighting the growing strength in the squad.
As South Africa seeks victory in this Test and targets a spot in the World Test Championship Final, the team is also focused on building a lasting legacy, much like the one Amla, Du Plessis, and Elgar left behind.