Philander enjoying limited-overs challenge
Seamer Vernon Philander delighted in the Man of the Match award, after leading South Africa to a consolation four-wicket win over Pakistan in Saturday's third and final ODI in Centurion.
Seamer Vernon Philander delighted in the Man of the Match award, after leading South Africa to a consolation four-wicket win over Pakistan in Saturday's third and final ODI in Centurion.
Outdone in Cape Town and Port Elizabeth, the Proteas put in a decidedly stronger performance. Restricting the opposition to 179 all out on the back of Philander's fine haul of three for 26, the hosts later reached a modest target with all of 68 deliveries to spare.
Named in the XI ahead of frontline fast bowlers Dale Steyn and Morne Morkel, Philander proved entirely key, dismissing opener Ahmed Shehzad, wicketkeeper-batsman Umar Akmal and aspiring all-rounder Anwar Ali with characteristically dangerous line and length.
"I am enjoying the challenge at the moment. It's tough to be out of the side, but I am enjoying every moment out there. With the first new ball there is not a lot changing," said Philander.
"As far as we can we try to strike with the new nut. I think the two new balls makes a difference as the ball stays a lot harder for a lot longer, also helped me get back into the fold again.
"My lengths still stay the same so I don't have to adjust too much there. Just aim for top of off and hope for the best."
Captain AB de Villiers' commanding 48 not out was at the fore of South Africa's response, while opener Hashim Amla's authoritative 41 and the left-handed David Miller's quickfire cameo of 24 offered solid support.
"It was tough to come out and bat against a world-class attack. Happy with how we stuck it through. It didn't do much this morning and we bowled really well. Have to give credit to my bowling unit for taking wickets on this pitch," added de Villiers.
"It was really tough to bat out there and score. That's why it made the run chase so special for us. We need a bit more care with the partnerships. We seem to get in and get out. If we get in we have to take it deep."
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