Conrad's backing gives Linde freedom to push for Proteas T20 World Cup spot

IN HIS first engagement with the media since being appointed Proteas all-format coach, Shukri Conrad made it clear that George Linde was one of three frontline spinners as the team builds for the T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka next year.

- ONGAMA GCWABE

Alongside Linde, there is 23-year-old leg-spinner Nqaba Peter and slow left-arm orthodox Senuran Muthusamy, with the trio being given opportunities to stake a claim for a spot in the full-strength Proteas side that will travel to the subcontinent next year.

Linde and Peter started well in the ongoing Tri-Series in Harare as they picked up four wickets between them, helping the Proteas seal a five-wicket victory over hosts Zimbabwe on Monday. Having been backed by Conrad, Linde highlighted that he now plays with freedom.

“Look, we (with Conrad) had a good conversation a month or two ago. It was positive, and he did say he wants me to be part of this T20 squad, and then we'll take things from there. I told him, I want to play for South Africa, and I want to give myself the best chance to play for South Africa,” Linde said yesterday.