Throughout the current T20 World Cup 2024, South Africa’s bowling unit has been greatly aided by rising pacer Ottneil Baartman. Before the big game, on May 5, 2023, at Sabina Park, the 31-year-old only played for the Proteas once, against the West Indies. His inclusion in the squad was a risky decision made by the Cricket South Africa (CSA) selectors, but he has returned the favour by leading the Rainbow Nation to some memorable World Cup performances.
Five of South Africa’s six matches in the 20-team competition have been played by the right-arm pacer. He has claimed six wickets at a strike rate of 19 and an average of 15.67. He has an economy rate of less than five, and his best result to far was 4/11 in four overs against the Netherlands.
Ottneil Baartman’s outstanding performance in the SA20’s second season was the main factor in his selection.
With an economy rate of 6.95 and 18 wickets at an average of 11.77, he concluded his career in the lucrative league. Baartman took 20 wickets this season, which was second only to Marco Jansen. His Sunrisers Eastern Cape club advanced straight to the final, where they ultimately prevailed, because to his outstanding 4-10 performance in the first qualifier against the Durban Super Giants.
Also read: Why won’t Tabraiz Shamsi be playing in England vs. South Africa in T20 World Cup 2024?
Mother Baartman wanted her son to prioritise his studies. Although my mother did not advise it, I had the option to attend a private school. It was one of those instances where academics were marginalised in favour of sports. For us, it meant that learning must come before participating in sports, as Baartman was cited by Wisden.
Following his ambition of playing for his country, the Oudtshoorn native is now a regular bowler for the national squad in what is shaping up to be an incredible campaign under Aiden Markram’s direction. With six straight victories, South Africa is almost guaranteed a spot in the 2024 T20 World Cup semifinals.
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