Amla lauded Pakistan’s fighting spirit in the second Test
While Pakistan may still be brooding over the 3-0 whitewashing they received at the hands of South Africa, Proteas opening batsman Hashim Amla’s comments on the fact that they pushed the South Africans “to our limits in certain respects” during the second Test in Cape Town may slightly brighten up their mood.
Amla credited the Pakistan team for their fight throughout the match and admitted that their chase of 182 in the second innings “was never going to be an easy total”.
“We were under pressure in our first innings, and then had to chase 180 in the second,” he said. “[It] was never going to be an easy total.”
Amla credited all-rounder Robin Peterson for his 84 in the first innings and believes it was the turning point in the match that was looking likely to be taken by Pakistan.
“We all know the kind of work Robbie puts in behind the scenes, so it was wonderful to watch him oozing with confidence while he was batting,” he said. “He also made a significant contribution with the ball and has become a recognised player in his own right.”
The opening batsman also took the time to praise pace bowler Rory Kleinveldt for all the hard work and dedication he has shown recently.
“Rory has become an integral part of the team, filling in whenever someone has been injured,” Amla said. “Against New Zealand [in January 2013], he bowled really well and he’s a quality performer. It’s a lovely opportunity for Rory to cement his position as one of the leading bowlers in the country.”
Despite winning the series 3-0, Amla stated that many of the top order batsmen were eagerly awaiting the next Test series as they are “hungry” to redeem themselves after failing to make “massive contributions” against Pakistan.
“A lot of us in the top order have got in, but haven’t made massive contributions, so we’re hungry to do that.” Amla said. “The bowlers have enjoyed their wickets, and will want to keep on in that vein, so there is a lot to play for. This country is a very proud nation so we have a duty to uphold in that regard.”