Vernon Philander eager to prove a point overseas – Cricket News Update
The rookie South African pace bowler, http://www.senore.com/Cricket/New-Zealand-c754 in their backyard is a real Test of his mental toughness.
"Your biggest test is always away from home," said Philander speaking to media reporters ahead of the second Test of the three-match series against New Zealand. "I've had the luxury of playing at home in my first few games so it's
a bit of a mental test having to come here and perform as well as I have at home."
The 26-year-old right-arm medium pacer – who made an outstanding Test debut against http://www.senore.com/Cricket/Australia-c746 at Cape Town in November last year returning with figures of 8 for 78, including his second innings haul of 5 for 17 – has so far played
in South African conditions only, and the ongoing tour of New Zealand is his first Test series overseas.
The emerging pacer was hopeful that his line would work for him anywhere in the world, and he added that his bowling length needs to be altered for New Zealand conditions.
"It's a touch slower than what we have back home .So I've got to bowl it slightly shorter than what I would do at home," said the pace bowling all-rounder.
If the Proteas want to gain the top position on http://www.senore.com/Cricket/ICC-World-Cup-2011-c100625 Test rankings they must defeat New Zealand 3-0 in the three match Test series, but their hopes were dashed as the opening Test in Dunedin ended in a draw, as the last day was washed
out due to rain.
The second Test of the series begins at Seddon Park, Hamilton, on Thursday, March 15, 2012. The Hamilton pitch, though drier and less conducive for pace bowling, is expected to offer movement to the fast bowlers and Philander is
hopeful it will be for his benefit.
"If there is movement, I am probably the one bowler that will exploit it," said the young pacer and added, "I always back myself to get something out of the wicket and with the new ball it's a big plus for me [to try and do that]."
The third and last Test of the series will be played at http://www.senore.com/Cricket/Wellington-c864 from March 23 to 27.
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