Proteas need to thrive off the challenge in Australia: Theunis de Bruyn

Middle-order batter De Bruyn was not far off Van der Dussen as he struck 88, the tourists declaring after the fall of Keshav Maharaj shortly before the close of the third day.

De Bruyn said he has matured since that last Test against India in October 2019 and hopes to take his opportunity if given time against Australia.

“If I get to play, I want to take it in and enjoy the occasion. As a child growing up and dreaming of playing for the Proteas, the holy grail is playing a Test series Down Under.

“It’s almost like wanting to be a Springbok rugby player and facing the All Blacks — it [a series against Australia] is the same for us as cricketers.”

The Titans man said previous tour successes for South Africa in Australia have been excellent motivation and the only way the current group could add themselves to that history was to face the challenge head-on.

The right-hander knows Australia will be tough opponents in their conditions but feels South Africa could thrive off that challenge and give as good as they get.

“If you look at the team here, the batsmen are experienced — perhaps not at an international level, but they have played the game. They have succeeded and failed, and have been through that rollercoaster and understand what it is all about,” he added.

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