Vernon Philander revels in dream debut – Cricket News Update
South Africa pacer, Vernon Philander commented after his match winning 8-wicket haul that he tried to stick to basic however, admitted his surprise after performing in such a prolific manner.
The Proteas registered a memorable win against Australia, courtesy of a strong bowling performance from their seamers, where the debutant was in the thick of the action.
After being bowled out for a mere 96 in the first innings, Philander instigated a dramatic collapse of the Aussie batting line-up by grabbing a five-for, which propelled the opponents to falter at a humiliating score of 47.
Philander, who plies his trade with Cape Cobras in the South African domestic circuit was not even in the reckoning, however got a surprising nod ahead of the inform left-armer, Lonwabo Tsotsobe.
“I wouldn’t have expected to have a debut like this but playing in front of my home crowd was a big occasion for me,” he explained. “I take the new ball in domestic cricket so I’m used to it but I would like to say thanks to Graeme for backing me with the
new ball,” he added.
He duly delivered by seaming the ball both ways which made things difficult for his opponents. While taking 3 in the first innings, the 26-year-old also said that he took a leaf from the book of Aussie all-rounder Shane Watson, which helped him to claim
a special five-wicket haul in his second outing.
“I looked at what Watson did after we were bowled out for 97. I thought it was right up my alley, this is my game.“I had a looked at what areas Watson bowled, which was a full length on off stump, and that’s all I did and I got reward for it,” added the
all-rounder.
In the end, Philander admitted his shock when he saw the Aussie falter so badly. However, was simply happy to contribute to the team.
The next task for the debutant will be to continue his winning ways and cement a permanent place in the side. The two teams will lock horns in the second and final Test match from the 17th of November.