‘Won’t surrender easily, looking for a really good battle’ - Shukri Conrad ready for New Zealand challenge despite key players missing

South Africa have decided to send a second-string squad to New Zealand for the upcoming two-match Test series as many of the first-team players are currently engaged in the ongoing edition of the SA20. The Proteas have faced a lot of backlash for this decision but head coach Shukri Conrad doesn’t want to think about it anymore and wants to focus on what lies ahead. 

Ahead of the Test series, Conrad is optimistic of their chances against New Zealand. South Africa holds a special record against the Kiwis, as they never lost a Test series against them since the 1931-32 season. Speaking about that, the 56-year-old mentioned that the visitors would aim to keep the record alive as they won’t surrender easily and are expecting a really good battle. Conrad also stated that they aren’t underdogs and will be gunning to prove themselves in the middle.

“We are all aware of why the side is what it is. We have made peace with it a long time ago. It’s a conversation which has been well-ventilated and discussed. If anything, it’s been used as a galvanising agent. We have guys here who are out to prove both to themselves and show the strength of the Proteas lies not only in the top 11 (players),” Conrad said.

New Zealand have never beaten us in a series: Shukri Conrad

Furthermore, the South African coach Shukri Conrad did not back out from boldly claiming that his side is not a totally downgraded side still neither the underdogs as many may think. Moreover, Conrad also pointed out the fact that the Proteas have never lost a series against the Black Caps. Besides, he also assured that 'surrender' won't be the word for the boys as they are all geared up to take on New Zealand. Hence, he will be looking forward to an intense battle with a top side in the world in the upcoming series.

“We are here as a Proteas side – not a second or third-rate side. The fact New Zealand have never beaten us in a series, that looms large. It’s a proud feat that we don’t easily want to surrender. We are looking forward to a really good battle on the field. I don’t think any South African likes to be regarded as an underdog, we are certainly not adopting that tag. I speak for every one of the guys – they are itching to get going against a top side,” he added.

Meanwhile, the Proteas have already reached South Africa, as the series is slated to begin on February 4 at Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui.