New Delhi, March 1 – Teenaged South African pacer Kwena Maphaka said that hitting the stumps and constantly varying his pace were key to his outstanding spell of 2-21 in South Africa’s five-wicket victory over Zimbabwe in their Super Eights clash at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Sunday.
With Kagiso Rabada, Marco Jansen, and Keshav Maharaj rested ahead of Wednesday’s semi-final against New Zealand in Kolkata, Maphaka stepped up and delivered, finishing with figures of 2-21 in his four overs. This included the crucial wicket of Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza in the 17th over, who was attempting a skier to David Miller at point.
“Honestly, we thought the pitch would be a bit faster, maybe a bit more bouncy. The last game we played in Delhi was a bit slower. Today was a bit slower and lower, so we just tried to adapt as quickly as possible – hitting the stumps and changing pace frequently,” he said.
It was only Maphaka’s second appearance in this tournament, yet the teenager has performed admirably alongside experienced players, generating movement with both the new and old balls, and finishing with a potent off-cutter that Raza was unable to anticipate.
“Obviously, the first World Cup has been really good so far. I've been able to learn from all the experienced players and put those learnings into practice on the field. Today was a great outing, and I'm hoping to continue performing well,” he said.
One of the key learnings has been the art of bowling slower balls, a weapon that Lungi Ngidi has used effectively throughout the tournament. “Yes, I’m learning about slower balls from him. Honestly, I don’t think anyone can bowl a slower ball like Lungi does. But I’ve picked up a few things from him.”
“Obviously, being able to learn from the experienced players is a huge advantage. There’s a lot of nuance in the game. Pace off is definitely one of them. Learning when to use different deliveries has been a key focus during this tour,” he said.
The South African pace bowling group, also featuring Kagiso Rabada, Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, and Anrich Nortje, is a challenging environment for a teenager making his international debut. However, Maphaka described it as a privilege.
“It’s an absolute privilege to be able to learn from these players. As you said, they are some of the most experienced players in the game. It’s been a great learning experience for me, and I’m very grateful to be in this position,” he said.
Competition for places within the group has been intense, though Maphaka insisted that the atmosphere within the camp has remained positive, even for those who haven't had much game time.
“I think it’s been a good dynamic. While I haven’t had a lot of game time, it hasn’t been a serious issue. The players are still performing well. There’s a lot of competition in the nets and during training. Even in the matches, I’m learning a lot. I think we’re in a good space right now,” he said.
Aside from matches, there is also an internal competition to see who can bowl faster, which keeps Maphaka motivated. “Definitely, there’s a bit of competition. Honestly, I think anyone can perform well on any given day. Most players can bowl at speeds of up to 150 kmph. It really depends on the day and who’s in form,” he said.
When Maphaka first appeared in international cricket at 18, he was relatively inexperienced, having played in the 2024 U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup. Now, at nearly 20, he says that the changes in him are more than just his cricketing experience.
“Coming in at 18 and being almost 20 now is a very different experience. I’ve gone through puberty and personal growth. I think it’s more about mental development, and also some physical development. So far, it’s been a great experience,” he said.
South Africa enter the semi-final as the only unbeaten team in the tournament, a status that has generated significant attention, but Maphaka appears relaxed about it.
“Honestly, it’s not a major issue. India were the favourites, and we just want to play our best cricket. I don’t think it really matters who we face.
“We’re going to try to win the game, and hopefully, we can win the tournament. We’re just going to keep doing what we’re doing, stay focused, and keep pushing forward,” he said.
