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 is one of three frontline spinners as they build for the T20 World Cup in India 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 India 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.