Backing Tristan Stubbs as South Africa’s Test No. 3
Tristan Stubbs, who has played just one Test so far, will be given a “good run” as South Africa’s Test No. 3 by coach Shukri Conrad. According to Conrad, Stubbs’ batting approach and imposing presence make him a promising prospect for the crucial position.
As the sole selector of both the squad and the playing XI, Conrad has decided to back the young batter despite his limited experience. “Technique is obviously a big factor because you’re going to be facing the new ball the bulk of the time,” Conrad said from Trinidad, where South Africa will face West Indies in the first of their two-Test series starting on Wednesday.
Conrad is drawn to Stubbs’ physical attributes, describing him as a “big, strong, strapping boy” with a “good aura” and “strong body language.” Stubbs, who stands at 1.84 meters, will be part of a formidable top three alongside Aiden Markram (1.85 meters) and Tony de Zorzi, a “bubbly character” not afraid to speak his mind.
“We do who we are. It’s become quite a cliche now being the best version of yourself, but…” Conrad said, emphasizing the importance of players embracing their natural abilities.
Statistically, Stubbs’ record in first-class cricket is impressive, with an average of 50.20 in 18 matches. His most notable performance was a 302* against KwaZulu-Natal Inland last February, demonstrating his dominance and ability to score quickly.
Conrad first identified Stubbs as a potential long-term pick for the No. 3 spot during the South Africa A tour of Sri Lanka last year, where the batter scored a century against Sri Lanka A. The coach is now committed to giving Stubbs the rest of the current World Test Championship cycle to cement his place in the side.
“I’m going to give him a good run,” Conrad said. “I’d be surprised if we didn’t back him throughout the rest of the cycle. I’m pretty confident Tristan is going to come good.”
With eight more Tests in the cycle, Stubbs will have the opportunity to face a variety of oppositions and conditions, which the coach believes will help him adjust and thrive in the role.
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