George Linde Gains Freedom to Pursue T20 World Cup Spot with Shukri Conrad’s Support

## Shukri Conrad’s Vision for the Proteas

In his first media interaction since becoming the all-format coach for the Proteas, Shukri Conrad expressed confidence in George Linde as one of three primary spin options as they prepare for the T20 World Cup in India next year.

### Key Spin Options

Joining Linde in the spin department are 23-year-old leg-spinner Nqaba Peter and slow left-arm orthodox bowler Senuran Muthusamy. This trio is set to compete for spots on the full-strength Proteas team heading to India.

#### Strong Start in the Tri-Series

Linde and Peter made a promising start during the ongoing Tri-Series in Harare, combining to take four wickets and assisting the Proteas to a five-wicket victory against Zimbabwe on Monday.

### Linde Emphasizes Freedom

With the backing of his coach, Linde expressed a newfound sense of freedom in his game. He shared insights from a recent discussion with Conrad, noting how supportive encouragement boosts his confidence and performance.

>”We had a good conversation a month or two ago. He wants me to be a part of this T20 squad, and I want to contribute to South Africa,” Linde stated.

He acknowledged his focus on taking things one game at a time, emphasizing the importance of performing well, especially with the World Cup in his sights.

## Upcoming Match Against New Zealand

The Proteas are preparing to face New Zealand at Harare Sports Club on Wednesday in the second match of the Tri-Series.

### Rivalry and Challenges

There are concerns about the advantage New Zealand may possess, especially since their coach, Rob Walter, has intimate knowledge of the Proteas’ strategies.

Linde, however, remains optimistic. He pointed out that the current Proteas T20I squad includes many fresh faces, indicating that Walter may not have insights on the new players.

>”There are many new faces, so it’s probably not the full-strength Proteas side,” Linde remarked.

### Game Fitness and Competition

Despite any possible advantages regarding strategy, New Zealand’s players come into the match with extensive competitive experience, having participated in the Indian Premier League and Major League Cricket recently.

Linde acknowledged that this match fitness will make the match an exciting contest.

>”They’ve played a lot of cricket, so it should be a great game. We hope to come out on top,” he concluded.

The match is set to start at 1 pm SAST.