Rickelton targets T20I breakthrough ahead of Australia series

PROTEAS batter Ryan Rickelton aims to cement his spot at the top of the order in the T20I side during the upcoming three-match series in Australia, as the Proteas look to find a settled squad for the 2026 T20 World Cup.

- ONGAMA GCWABE

Rickelton, though he has secured a place as an opener in the Test and ODI squads, is yet to make a mark in the shortest format, having scored only one half-century in 13 innings with an average of 20. However, the left-handed batter has all the shots and batting tempo to succeed as a T20I opener, as proven in the SA20 and IPL earlier this year.

Coach Shukri Conrad has also backed Rickelton, making it clear that he will open the batting in Australia.

The 29-year-old told the media on Wednesday that, whether he opens with 19-year-old Lhuan-dré Pretorius or Aiden Markram, he will not change his natural brand of cricket, as it fits the vision of the current T20 side.

"I can honestly say I'm still trying to establish myself in the T20 side. From my own personal point of view, luckily enough, there is experience around me within T20Is, such as Aiden and Rassie," said Rickelton.