10 Interesting facts about Duanne Olivier - A knight without an armor

South African team is all set to take on India for the second of the three-match Test series and to their surprise, the experienced campaigner Dale Steyn will not be participating in the remainder of the series. His replacement came as a blessing in disguise for the 25-year-old Duanne Olivier. Olivier has been able to impress everyone with his ability to extract bounce from the docile tracks and swing the ball both ways. The speedster carries 17 wickets in mere 5 Test matches.

1.  Birth and Career

He was born on 9th May 1992 in Groblersdal, South Africa. He is a right-arm-fast-medium bowler, who has played for South Africa, Knights, South Africa A, South African XI, Joburg Giants. His current ICC ranking is 49.

2. Most successful bowler in South Africa A tour to Australia

The 25-year-old bowler proved to be the most successful bowler when South Africa A toured Australia in 2017 winter. In a short two-match series, the speedster was able to pick six wickets at an average of under 30.

3. Made his debut against Sri Lanka

The right-arm-fast bowler made his debut against Sri Lanka where he managed to pick five wickets which eventually led him to be in the setup for the upcoming tours. His consistent performance in the domestic arena helped him to deliver with full confidence.

4. 17 wickets in just 5 matches

In his short career so far, he has been able to pick 17 wickets at an average of 23.12. He has also been able to bowl at a good economy rate, keeping it just under four runs per over. His best figures in an inning are recorded as three wickets for 38 runs, whereas the best figures in a match are five wickets for 57 runs.

5. Cricket was not his first sport

One of the most interesting facts about Duanne Olivier tells us that cricket was not his first love and he used to play Rugby. However, after a severe injury during a Rugby game, he forced himself to shift his focus to cricket. With God’s grace Duanne was able to justice to his decision.

6. Scintillating U19 stint

He speedster first came into the limelight at Under 19 level when he used to play for the Northen. His consistent performances helped South African Fraternity to keep an eye on the young man. He picked up eight wickets at an average of just 25.42.

7. Might replace Dale Steyn

His Test call-up came after Dale Steyn suffered an injury and will at least take three to four weeks to be back in the South African setup. Dale’s exclusion came as a blessing in disguise for Duanne Olivier. He will look to grab this opportunity with both hands and be a part of the South African team more often.

8. Learnt bowling tricks on the same surface as did Allan Donald

Duanne Olivier learnt all the bowling skills on the same surface as was done by one of the greats of modern day cricket, Allan Donald. Donald has been able to make a name for himself and looks to share his experience with the young talent every now and then. Duanne will look to walk on his path.

9. In 2015-16, Duanne Olivier was included in South Africa Invitation XI

Duanne Olivier was a part of South Africa Invitation XI in 2015-16. He played against Sri Lanka and was able to pick four wickets for just 57 runs. His pace and versatility helped him to show his talent at this stature.

10. Made his franchise debut in 2014

Last, but not the least, Duanne Olivier made his franchise debut in 2014 at the Wanderers where he managed to pick just one wicket and gave 30 runs. Also, he has played just one-match at this venue.