South African cricket fans are in for a treat as three of their national team’s stars – Aiden Markram, Heinrich Klaasen, and Kagiso Rabada – are set to renew their rivalry on the field during the upcoming IPL clash between Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Punjab Kings (PBKS). Ahead of the match, the players reminisced about their school days and the competitive spirit that had followed them from their early cricketing years.
Rabada’s Early Pace Caused a Stir
Recalling their first encounters, Rabada spoke about facing Markram during a school match between his team, St Stithians College, and Markram’s Pretoria Boys College. Rabada highlighted Markram’s batting prowess even in their early days. Heinrich Klaasen also chimed in, praising Rabada’s competitive spirit and exceptional pace, which had already begun turning heads during their school days.
“Everyone was just speaking about how quick he was and how good he was,” Klaasen said, remembering a school game against Rabada. “We faced him there, he bowled really well against us, but I think that was the first memory I had of KG (Rabada),” he added.
Markram Reveals Rabada’s Competitive Fire
Speaking about Rabada’s on-field persona, Markram revealed that while Rabada doesn’t shy away from expressing himself, his biggest competitor is often himself. “He (Rabada) is not scared to show his presence on the field,” Markram said. “He’s a massive competitor, and I don’t think any bowler will like it if a batter gets in their space. But definitely with KG, if you get in his space, he will be up for it.”
Despite the fierce competition on the field, Klaasen shed light on Rabada’s lighter side. “He makes some funny comments, so that’s the one thing that puts a smile on everyone’s faces in the training room,” Klaasen said. Klaasen acknowledged Rabada’s skills and admitted the challenge he presents. “He has been number one in the world and top of the pile,” Klaasen said. “It is going to be interesting to face him again.”
Markram, the captain of the South African U19 team that won the World Cup in 2014, expressed his excitement about facing his former teammate. “He’s a massive competitor, and I enjoy getting into friendly battles with him,” Markram said. Both Markram and Rabada played pivotal roles in their U19 World Cup victory, with Markram being named Player of the Tournament and Rabada taking a crucial six-wicket haul.
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