South Africa is one of the top nations in the cricket world. The country keeps producing top-quality cricketers. 25-year-old Ryan Rickelton is a rising star of South African cricket. He is a wicket-keeper batter who has scored 2,643 runs in first-class cricket at an average of close to 50.
He has aggregated 2,112 runs in 51 List-A matches and also scored 928 runs in 43 T20 innings. The left-handed batter has represented South Africa at the U-19 level. He is yet to make his international debut at the senior level. Earlier this year, Ryan Rickelton toured Pakistan as a part of the South African T20I squad.
And now, the selectors have picked him for the home Test series against India. Ryan Rickelton could make his debut at the grand stage soon, and ahead of the biggest series of his life, the South African player spoke to Swagcricket.com in an exclusive interview.
Here are the excerpts from Interview with Ryan Rickelton:
Q. Hey Ryan! How have you been doing? How has been the year 2021 so far for you?
Ryan Rickelton: An interesting year both on and off the field, but grateful for another year shared with friends and family.
Q. You played for Lions in the 4-day franchise series and scored 2 centuries in 3 matches, including a 159-run knock against North West. Share some details about your experience of playing that tournament.
Ryan Rickelton: Obviously keen to start the season off well, so put a big emphasis on that. I prepared well and was confident with my work, which allowed me to go out there and not think about it too much other than to just play freely.
Q. You have played all 3 formats of domestic cricket. As a wicketkeeper batter, which is the toughest format for you and why?
Ryan Rickelton: I think 4 day cricket is the most difficult, as it tests you more than the others technically and mentally, but ultimately is the most rewarding.
Q. You could make your Test debut against India soon. How excited are you for the upcoming series?
Ryan Rickelton: Would be a dream come true to play against the best side in the world. But if that’s not the case just to be apart of such a big series is a great place to start.
Q. How was your experience of traveling to Pakistan and spending time in the country earlier this year?
Ryan Rickelton: Pakistan is incredible. Very unique experience with Covid and the levels of security. But learnt a lot from the trip and gained some valuable experience.
Q. 3 years ago, you won the Mzansi Super League with Jozi Stars. How was the experience of sharing the dressing room with overseas stars like Dan Christian and Chris Gayle?
Ryan Rickelton: The first MSL was incredible. The flag ship tournament with house hold names on the field was amazing. Was really great to spend time playing with and against the big boys and to learn from them was a great intro into my professional career.
Q. You have played with some great South African players in your career so far. Tell us the best advice you have received from a player.
Ryan Rickelton: “It’s important to trust your instincts, and to never doubt them as well as your ability.”
Q. Which Indian players you think could challenge South Africa in the upcoming Test series?
Ryan Rickelton: I think that team is packed with phenomenal players. Both seam attacks are really good so it will be the battle of the batters, if a guy like Virat and Rahul have a good series, it will put some pressure on us.
Q. Who is your cricketing idol?
Ryan Rickelton: Ricky Ponting and Mike Hussey.
Q. What is your new year resolution for 2022?
Ryan Rickelton: To really enjoy where I am at that point in time, not focus on the future, and not dwell on the past.
