We want to regain the No.1 Test ranking: Vernon Philander

In what seems to be a forgetful tour for the Indian team after already being 2-0 down in as many matches in the ongoing Test series, South African seamer Vernon Philander has issued a warning to the Indian camp as the hosts are in no mood to lower down their guards in the ultimate match of the series as they are eyeing a 3-0 whitewash against the No. 1 ranked Test side in what proves to be a golden chance for the Proteas to move upwards in the Test rankings.

South Africans have been critical of their performance and don’t want to leave any stone unturned even after gaining an unassailable lead in the series. The hosts consider each match as a tough challenge that they want to overcome in every possible way.

Would go for the kill

In the pre-match press conference ahead of the final Test, Vernon made his intentions very clear as the team doesn’t want to give Indians an opportunity to bounce back, they would love to go for the kill even if the match results won’t affect the series winners. “There are no dead rubber games for us. We want to prepare as well as we can and be ready for Wednesday. We want to regain the No.1 Test ranking and so we want to win each and every single Test,” remarked the seam bowler as quoted by Yahoo Cricket.

Considering the pictures doing the rounds before the match in terms of pitch behaviour, a green 22-yard is certainly awaiting the Indian team. Talking about the pace and bouncy nature of the typical Wanderers wicket with greater movement off the wicket given the altitude at which ground is located, Philander said, “I haven’t looked at the pitch yet, but normally there is pace and bounce at the Wanderers.”

His role in the side

The South African new ball bowler even notified about the understanding within the group given the, unlike abilities each member brings to the table. “Our roles always differ on different types of surfaces. I play with understanding of my role in the side. Last game I had to keep it tight from one end,” he said.

Being one of the experienced campaigners in the side along with few others, the all-rounder is familiar with his abilities that do provide a balance to the team. “Playing an extra batsman won’t change things where I bat at no.7 or 8. I still have to contribute with bat and ball, and it won’t make any massive difference to me as a player. I see myself as an all-rounder,” he added.

Hailed the Debutant

The leader of the pack has a good camaraderie within the bowling unit. His thoughts on Keshav Maharaj being a vital player who is often ‘the man at rescue’ whenever partnerships are hard to break, signifies the mutual respect for individuals in the side. The 32-year old also heaped praises for the Debutant, Lungi Ngidi as the former was impressed with the composure shown by the youngster. “He is a phenomenal talent. He has pace and bounce, the way he went about his business, and the manner in which he stayed calm, it was all good to see,” Philander exclaimed.