At 29, Patrick Kruger is experiencing international cricket with the Proteas a bit later than many of his peers, following a series of strategic rest days for several key players after the ICC T20 World Cup. However, the powerful all-rounder is determined to capitalise on his chance, eyeing the upcoming series in the United Arab Emirates as a pivotal opportunity.
South Africa is set to face Ireland in a three-match T20 International series starting in Abu Dhabi on Friday, featuring a squad filled with newcomers—including Kruger, who recently made his Proteas debut during a 3-0 series loss to the West Indies in the Caribbean.
Alongside Wiaan Mulder, Kruger stands out as one of the primary all-rounders in the team, while talented all-rounder Marco Jansen focuses on his development back in South Africa.
Kruger had a successful run in the SA20 league with the Sunrisers Eastern Cape, contributing significantly with the bat and showcasing his medium-pace bowling. After showing flashes of his ability against the West Indies, he is eager to make a mark against Ireland and secure his place in the squad.
"I thrive on competition. It's motivating to know that someone's vying for your position or that you need to prove yourself as the top all-rounder," Kruger stated. "However, I prefer to focus on my own performance rather than see it as a rivalry. My goal is to give myself the best chance to be selected and to perform well."
Kruger believes the SA20 has been instrumental for local South African players, providing invaluable experience alongside international stars and allowing them to measure their skills against some of the world's best. He feels this exposure has eased the transition from domestic to international cricket.
"The intensity of international cricket can be overwhelming. If I hadn’t played in the SA20, this journey would have been much harder," Kruger reflected. "Now, I feel more mature and confident in my game and my role."
Proteas T20 squad for Ireland series
Aiden Markram (captain, Titans), Ottneil Baartman (Dolphins), Matthew Breetzke (Warriors), Nandre Burger (Western Province), Bjorn Fortuin (Lions), Reeza Hendricks (Lions), Patrick Kruger (Warriors), Wiaan Mulder (Lions), Lungi Ngidi (Titans), Nqaba Peter (Lions), Ryan Rickelton (Lions), Andile Simelane (Dolphins), Jason Smith (Dolphins), Tristan Stubbs (Warriors) and Lizaad Williams (Titans).