In an exclusive conversation, South African batting sensation Dewald Brevis has shed light on his cricketing journey, revealing the impact of working with legendary Indian captain Sourav Ganguly, his current form in the SA20 league, and his mindset ahead of the crucial T20 World Cup. The young prodigy, often dubbed 'Baby AB' for his striking resemblance to AB de Villiers' style, also spoke about his strategy to ignore the constant buzz of outside opinions.
Learning from Dada: The Ganguly Influence
Brevis, who plays for the Mumbai Indians-owned Cape Town franchise in the SA20, highlighted the unique experience of having Sourav Ganguly as the head coach. He expressed immense gratitude for the opportunity to learn from one of cricket's most astute minds. Brevis noted that Ganguly's insights extend beyond technical advice, focusing heavily on the mental aspects of the game and building a resilient character on the field, much like the former Indian skipper was known for during his playing days.
SA20 Momentum and T20 World Cup Build-up
Discussing his preparations, Brevis emphasized the importance of the ongoing SA20 tournament as a perfect platform to fine-tune his skills for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup. He acknowledged that consistent performances in a high-pressure league like the SA20 are vital for securing a spot in the national squad and building confidence. The young batter is focused on contributing significantly to his team's success while using each match as a stepping stone towards the global tournament.
Blocking Out the Noise
A significant part of the discussion revolved around handling fame and external expectations. Brevis admitted that the 'outside noise' – comprising both praise and criticism – can be a distraction. He revealed his conscious effort to stay grounded by focusing solely on the process and his team's environment. By concentrating on controllable factors like training, recovery, and team strategy, he successfully maintains his equilibrium and performance levels amidst the spotlight.
Brevis's reflections offer a glimpse into the mindset of a modern young cricketer navigating the pressures of franchise cricket and international aspirations. His partnership with Sourav Ganguly in the SA20 is being closely watched, as fans and experts alike anticipate how this mentorship will shape his approach in the lead-up to the T20 World Cup, where he aims to make a substantial impact for South Africa.
