Matthew Breetzke Gaining Confidence in Number Four Role Ahead of Final ODI

Breetzke's Growing Experience at Number Four

Visakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh) [India], December 5: South African cricketer Matthew Breetzke expressed that he is becoming increasingly comfortable batting at the number four position. This statement came just before the third ODI in the series against India.

Due to the presence of senior players like Aiden Markram, Quinton de Kock, and captain Temba Bavuma at the top of the order, Breetzke has been positioned at number four.

In the second ODI, Breetzke played a crucial role, scoring a commendable half-century that contributed to South Africa's successful chase of 359 runs, leveling the series at 1-1.

“I’m gaining more experience batting at four, and I’m starting to feel more at ease in this role. The more I play here, the better I hope to become,” Breetzke shared, as reported by a sports media outlet.

So far, Breetzke has accumulated 449 runs in nine innings at this position, boasting an impressive average of 56.12, including five fifties and a strike rate nearing 95 in ODIs.

Reflecting on the first ODI in Ranchi, where India triumphed by 17 wickets, Breetzke discussed the challenges of building an innings under pressure.

“In the first match, we faced some difficulties, so I focused on stabilizing the innings. In the second match, it was about managing the incoming players,” he explained.

“After Aiden’s century, I had to guide Dewald Brevis and allow them to play their natural game. They possess explosive talent, so it was essential to forge partnerships with them,” he added.

Breetzke also emphasized the strength of South Africa's batting lineup, expressing confidence as they approach the final ODI. “We have a well-balanced team with solid batters and power hitters like Brevis and Marco Jansen who can turn the game around,” he noted.

“Corbin Bosh has delivered remarkable performances in the last two matches. As the top four, we feel confident taking our time, knowing that the explosive players can finish strong. It’s crucial for us to set a solid foundation for them to capitalize on. There’s a lot of confidence in our batting unit right now, but we need to replicate this in the next match,” Breetzke concluded.