South Africa pacer Lungi Ngidi could emerge as a key figure in the ICC World Test Championship Final against Australia at Lord’s, as the Proteas gear up for their biggest Test in years.
Often overshadowed by star quicks Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen, Ngidi’s return from injury could provide a timely boost to South Africa’s formidable pace unit. The 29-year-old, who bowled at full throttle during Sunday’s training session, is feeling confident ahead of the Ultimate Test.
“I feel very ready, as I’ve had a lot of time to prepare for this,” Ngidi told ICC Digital. “It’s every cricketer’s dream to play at Lord’s. I’ve been blessed with the opportunity before, playing against England at Lord’s, and that was quite something for me – the nerves and the excitement. But coming back this time around, the nerves are much more settled.”
Ngidi praised Rabada’s memorable five-wicket haul the last time the Proteas played at Lord’s and said, “The last time we were here, I knew that he (Rabada) wanted to get his name on the honours board. The best way I could help him do that was by being as consistent and as patient as I could be.”
South Africa have been knocking on the door in recent ICC tournaments, and Ngidi understands what a win would mean. “I don’t think I can put it into words, to be honest,” he said. “For me, this is the ultimate form of cricket, and to be able to bring this back home would be a dream come true.”
While Rabada and Jansen are expected to start for the Proteas, Ngidi will compete with Dane Paterson for the third seamer’s spot.
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