Follow UsAttacking batter Dewald Brevis, who received his maiden call-up for the upcoming white-ball series agianst Australia, says that the last few days with the South African camp have been amazing and a dream come true.
With the World Cup around the corner, this series against Australia could be a terrific opportunity for him to put his hand up with some eye-catching performances.
"It's been really amazing these last few days. A dream has come true from a very young age. To be part of this amazing setup of the Proteas. It's been my dream, and it feels good to live my dream. Couldn't have asked for anything better," said Brevis in an interaction with the press.
Brevis is also happy to start his international career at Kingsmead, Durban, the T20 Internationals (T20I) venue against Australia.
"I'm quite excited [about being at Kingsmead]. It'll be special because obviously, it'll be in South Africa but the biggest thing is that we have pictures of when I was a boy and watching the game with South Africa playing. I was literally at the ground, taking pictures with all the players, even Quinny [de Kock] and all the players."
Brevis rose to prominence with his attacking strokeplay in the Under-19 World Cup 2022, smashing 506 runs at 84.33 in the tournament. While he has played for many T20 teams globally since then, Brevis believes it is important to be flexible with many competition for spots.
"My biggest thing is to be a person who can play all roles wherever I have to bat for the team. Always give my best. Last ODIs [A games] against Sri Lanka where I batted middle order. You play the situation, basically. You prefer opening, but it's about being creative and adapting to challenges. Wherever you bat, you keep doing your best and enjoy yourself."
Dubbed "Baby AB" after the South African superstar AB de Villiers, Brevis is aware of the hype that surrounds his potential debut.
"There is definitely [a lot of nerves], but everyone has been very welcoming in the dressing room. There are challenges, obviously, you always want to be better. there are always things to work on. Things don't always turn out the way you want them to. It's about being strong, be in the moment and always trust God's timing, however that goes. I believe that everything happens for a reason," Brevis said.
"There will always be expectations, and I always like that because there is more reason to show who you are then. Pressure is always there. I feel the pressure, but I like it. I prefer to go head-to-head with the pressure. It's about how you deal with it and not to think too much about it."
The series will kick start with three T20Is in Durban, starting August 30. The T20Is will be followed by five One-Day Internationals (T20I), which will get underway from September 7 across four venues.