by Abhai Sawkar The Proteas had their share of challenges in Test cricket during the home summer, but on the bright side, much of it was a steep learning curve that required quick adjustment. The Test series against England was a painful 1-3 loss; however, it did open the door for a few newcomers to audition for an extended run. Five players made their debuts across four matches, and it was quite a struggle to settle on the strongest possible XI. That being said, another opening was created when Aiden Markram’s finger injury in the first Test ruled him out of the remaining games. That brought about a maiden Test call for the industrious VKB Knights batsman, Keegan Petersen. He may not have had a chance to play, but the time alongside the rest of the Proteas squad was something to savor. “It definitely was a dream come true," said Petersen. "I couldn't believe it when I got the call from the selector. It’s a completely professional environment and a great group to be involved with. You learn so much from everyone.” During the 2018-19 season, Petersen scored the most runs in the 4-Day Franchise Series, amassing 923 runs in just 9 games. The breakthrough tournament was always going to put him in contention for playing international cricket. Even though it did, it was time for him to make a tough decision: he opted to relocate to the Dolphins to further his credentials as a potential Test cricketer, with a new home ground that is also an accredited Test venue in South Africa. While he’s quietly optimistic, he’s fully aware of what may come in the near future. Adjustment is key, and the early part of the next season will mostly be focused on learning and adaptation. Playing spin has been an Achilles heel for the Proteas, and Petersen is proactive when it comes to addressing the issues at hand. “It's going to be another challenge. Going into a new environment and having to learn how things work in a new system again. I'm looking forward to the challenge because it's going to challenge my batting in a new way with the slower turning surfaces.” Maintaining a strong sense of self-belief has been a prominent strong area for the 26-year-old. Known to have an unflappable presence at the crease, Petersen has become a household name among the rising domestic superstars in first-class cricket. His recipe for sustaining the consistency over a longer period of time has been fairly straightforward so far. “Purely trusting my ability and preparation, keep telling myself that I can be better than anything that comes my way. That way I create my own confidence. Over the course of my whole career, I've always turned to my father. He knows me best and always makes me feel at ease, whether it be in cricket or life in general.” It’s quite a mix of emotions to switch teams, especially when your current team is where you’ve learned a lot about your game as well as made crucial early progress. Petersen will always be thankful for all the memorable milestones and achievements with the Knights, since that’s provided him the initial launch pad to work towards becoming a Test cricketer for the Proteas. In December 2019, Petersen scored an impressive 111 in the warm-up game against England. “There are so many memories that I can't even pinpoint one, to be honest. I won my first trophy with the Knights a few years ago when we won the 4 day competition [in the 2016-17 season]. I've grown to where I am in Bloemfontein and I'm grateful for all the opportunities the Knights gave me and trusted me to do the job.” Originally from Cape Town, Petersen began his journey in franchise cricket with the Cape Cobras before moving to the Knights four years ago. At the time, he was stepping into uncharted territory with some feelings of uncertainty. Now that he’s established a solid reputation as a first-class cricketer, Bloemfontein has become a “home away from home” without a doubt. “It's always a challenge coming into a new team and new environment, the fear of worrying whether you're going to fit in or not, the fear of wondering where you're going to be in a few years’ time. The Knights family made me feel welcome and made me overcome those feelings. We had our challenges like everyone else but they brought the best out of me.” Relatively speaking, the transition to the Dolphins should be quite smooth, considering the fact that there are several familiar faces and the chances to further fine-tune his game. The longer format is Petersen’s strongest suit, considering his stately and phlegmatic approach. Becoming a reliable all-format player is in his plans, and getting frequent game time across formats will continue to propel him forward. “The first move was difficult because I moved away from home and family. I was young and I've come a long way since then. I've matured and learned plenty about myself and as a result, this move is not as difficult, even though I have to start all over again.” Petersen is primed for his new beginning at the KZN-based franchise in the upcoming domestic season. These are uncertain times, and the start of the new season has yet to be confirmed. Concerns aside, there lies an exciting road and a climactic phase ahead.
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September 2020
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