Dewald Brevis caught the eye of Indian cricketing great Anil Kumble, as the swashbuckling South African batsman was the standout batsman on his debut for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) on Friday.
Rising Proteas star Brevis top-scored for CSK coming in at number five against Sunrisers Hyderabad with 42 from 25.
As just three other players made double figures for CSK, they were bowled out for 154 in 19.5 overs.
SRH knocked off the modest victory target without much fuss, with five wickets and eight balls remaining.
Brevis: Rising Star Following in the Footsteps of Legends
With Brevis coming in as an injury replacement for CSK, Kumble sung the praises of the 21-year-old.
Speaking on JioHotstar, Kumble said: “His ability to play spin really stood out. Chennai isn’t easy. It’s a two-paced wicket where the odd ball holds up. He’s done it before in South Africa, in first-class cricket, and at the U-19 level, which is how he came into the IPL.”
“He came in as a replacement, wasn’t even part of the squad originally, and that reminds me of how one ‘Universe Boss’ (Chris Gayle) too walked in as a replacement for RCB in 2011 and became an icon.”
Previously likened to AB de Villiers due to his ability to play all around the wicket, Brevis also impressed Kumble with his shot-making.
“Brevis has all the shots. With Rachin Ravindra, Mhatre, and Pathirana, CSK has a young core to build on. Brevis has the potential to be a long-term asset for the franchise. With five games left, it’s the perfect time to give youngsters a decent run and start building for the future.”
@Michael_Sherman
IOL Sport
