Is Ryan Rickelton’s future uncertain with Proteas after India ODI series struggles?
Ryan Rickelton’s (pictured) future in the Proteas ODI team may be uncertain after two ducks in the India series, with his inconsistent ODI performance contrasting his stronger Test record, and potential lineup changes looming under coach Shukri Conrad. Picture: Dibyangshu Sarkar/AFP
Image: Dibyangshu Sarkar/AFP
Ryan Rickelton may be left wondering about his future in the Proteas One-Day International (ODI) team after two ducks in the recent series in India.
After not playing in the first ODI, Rickelton did not trouble the scorers in the final two matches of the series.
In fact, while the returning Quinton de Kock notched up a masterful century, there would also be no thought of Rickelton commanding a place in the side as a wicketkeeper.
As long as De Kock is in the side, he will keep wicket, and therefore Rickelton will have to rely on runs along to keep his place.
Rickelton’s ODI Struggles and Potential Changes in South Africa’s Line-Up
Though Rickelton brought up his maiden ODI century in February this year against Afghanistan, his stats in the format do not inspire confidence as a top-order batsman.
His highest score since that ton is 35 in his last 10 knocks, and that’s in an ODI career that is just 17 matches old. He also averages just 28 at a strike rate of 86.
In comparison to his Test career of 15 matches, Rickelton has fared much better in the longest format of the game. He already has two centuries and a fifty to his name and a promising average of 37.
The 29-year-old is also a left-handed batsman, and if De Kock remains in the side, the Proteas would prefer a left-right combination to open if possible.
There are then a number of options for the Proteas for opener, with Temba Bavuma and Aiden Markram both able to fill that role.
With South Africa going down 2-1 to India in the ODI series with their loss in Visakhapatnam on Sunday, coach Shukri Conrad will likely not be shy of experimenting with his side - and Rickelton could be one of the first casualties.
* The views expressed are not necessarily the views of IOL or Independent Media.
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