150 runs on debut, the only player in One Day Internationals to do so. 200 runs and counting in his first two innings, again the only player in the 50-over format to do so.
When one sees such towering statistics for a player who has just sprung into playing the ODI format, he ought to be impressed and this is precisely what the new sensation of South African cricket, the perfect mix of measured aggression, Mathew Breetzke has achieved having had a debut, which perhaps has been on a bed of not roses but runs.
This new dynamite in the Protea ranks scored 150 in his first outing against a full-strength BlackCaps attack boasting the likes of Matt Henry, Will O’Rourke and Mitch Santner and followed that up with an aggressive 83 in his second showing against the much-admired Pakistani pace attack comprising of Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah who on their day are capable of destroying any world class batting order.
An average of 116.50 at a strike rate of 100. Smashing records when most other debutants are just trying to find their feet in the vagaries of the 50-over format. This after building from a strong foundation in List A games, scoring an impressive 1800 runs at an average of 33 and a strike rate of 81 from just 60 outings.
Perhaps a start which gestures what dreams are made of and that too with good measure as his Durban Super Giants captain and South African compatriot, Keshav Maharaj had very eloquently said “a real character with a similar mindset to Virat Kohli”.
Such is the confidence with which Mathew has begun his international One Day career that it seems he has been a mainstay in the Proteas batting lineup for an eternity which brings me to the question that serves as the title of this piece, why is he missing from the upcoming, much revered Champions Trophy?
Perhaps the one logical answer could be that the Proteas limited overs coach, Rob Walter had announced his squad much before Breetzke’s much acclaimed exploits but still had the leeway to make amends until the ICC deadline of 12th February.
This was not to be and perhaps Mathew has been unlucky to not be included which truth be told in my humble opinion does not augur well for the South African team and more importantly the man himself.
Walter’s mindset could be to keep experience at the core of South Africa’s batting with the likes of a seasoned stalwart in Rassie van der Dussen taking the number three spot that perhaps was well suited to Breetzke in the line up if he were to be in the eleven. This also after considering the opening combination of Bavuma with either de Zorzi or Rickelton seems to be locked and the middle order with the likes of Markram, Miller and Klaasen are a definite go.
Having said this, one would reckon the most important thing is to undoubtedly have the man who has been scoring runs in the eleven and if that means an experienced campaigner has to make way for this youngster then so be it.
Because at the end of the day what matters is the current form and truth be told Mathew seems to be in a purple patch with his two outings. Another travelling reserve to be considered for South Africa along with Kwena Maphaka?
Perhaps, that’s wishful thinking as the Proteas squad is locked with the much talented Mathew Breetzke not being a part.
Despite this one would hope South Africa puts in a good performance in the upcoming edition of the
Champions Trophy as even the Almighty knows they need to somehow get back to winning ways
with six consecutive defeats in their last six ODI outings courtesy some large-hearted bowling albeit only to concede runs.
Having said so, this we will witness in the time to come, but for now all the glory and accolades belong to the rising Prince of South African cricket—Mathew Breetzke.
With his blazing start, he’s captured the imagination of the nation. Here’s hoping this breezy vein of form continues to light up the cricketing world for Mr. Breetzke! The stage is set for a spectacular
journey ahead.
