New Delhi, Feb 18 (NationPress) On the brink of the South Africa versus UAE showdown in the Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, consultant coach Albie Morkel dismissed worries regarding Dewald Brevis’s performance, following his scores of 6, 23, and 31. Morkel described him as an X-factor player who can ‘break your heart at times, but he will also win you games’. Morkel stated, ‘The best approach is to allow him to be that guy.’ On Wednesday, free from scoreboard pressure, Brevis entertained a lively crowd of 14,400 by scoring 36 runs off 25 balls, marking his highest score in this World Cup.

Following South Africa's six-wicket victory, which secured their unbeaten status in Group D, Brevis, participating in his inaugural T20 World Cup, refuted any claims of feeling pressure due to his earlier low scores. “Not at all. Every ball I hit and every moment I've been out there, I feel like my confidence is at a great place and I enjoy being out there,” he stated.

“That's how I always want to play, to be myself, to enjoy the game, to watch the ball. It’s simply being myself, and then the best things happen. Consistency is key, and while performance isn't always guaranteed, we all experience ups and downs. It’s beneficial to remain optimistic and continue backing your style of play,” he shared in the mixed zone after the match.

Brevis also recalled a magnificent 87-meter pull shot over midwicket, which thrilled the crowd, as his favorite among the two sixes he hit, despite the short ball often being his downfall. “I really enjoyed the pull shot. I love it when the ball is short.”

South Africa’s Super Eights opponents are set, as they prepare to face defending champions India in Ahmedabad on Sunday, a match anticipated to attract a full house at the Narendra Modi Stadium. South Africa’s bowlers have adapted well to the conditions after playing three Group D matches, although India remains the favorite.

“It’s fantastic. The boys and everyone, we're in a great place. We're developing as a team, and it's exciting to witness our progress. I cherish every moment on the field, and everyone is performing well. The wicket was intriguing, but enjoyable, and I’m glad I could contribute to the team,” Brevis commented.

When asked about strategies to overcome India on Sunday, Brevis offered a concise response: “As South Africa, we just keep playing as we have been. That’s all I need to say.”

The challenge of facing Varun Chakaravarthy looms large, but Brevis refrained from revealing his game plan. “He’s a spinner, so I’ll treat him like one—watch the ball and react.”

Having made his T20I debut in Durban in August 2023, Brevis has taken time to evolve into a key player for the Proteas. “I’ve definitely grown into the player I am today. It’s all part of Dewald's journey, and I’m enjoying it immensely. I understand the ups and downs, which are essential to discovering who you are as a player and a person. I’ve cherished every moment,” he expressed.

Often compared to the legendary AB de Villiers, Brevis stated he never felt pressured by those comparisons. “It’s always been a great honor to be compared with AB, but I’ve never felt pressured. I take it as an honor and enjoy being here.”

Brevis acknowledged that the pitches in the IPL, where he plays for the Chennai Super Kings, are superior to those in the World Cup. “In the IPL, the wickets are a bit flatter and arguably better. However, the conditions here are still great. The atmosphere created by the fans is amazing, and we love playing here.”

Responding to a reminder that South Africa lost the T20I series 4-1 to India last year and whether it would impact the Proteas, Brevis set it aside. “Interestingly, my dad advised me during that series, saying, ‘Whatever happens, it’s just preparing you for the World Cup match against them.’ I entered that series with that mindset.

“However, it’s a new game with fresh conditions. Both teams will face a clean slate, and we aim to perform at our best while focusing on the little things and enjoying the game,” he concluded.