Aiden Markram always trying to 'evolve as a batter' after record-breaking century

By Nasri Alexander
9th October 2023

Aiden Markram says he is always trying to "evolve as a batter" after smashing the quickest century in World Cup history in the Proteas' opener against Sri Lanka.

Markram was in brutal mode as his hundred came off just 49 balls, beating the 50-ball mark set by Ireland's Kevin O'Brien against England in 2011.

The ODI format has not always been a favourite for Markram with the right-hander only hitting two hundreds in 52 innings prior to the plundering in Delhi on Saturday.

"I think you do try to evolve as a batter and it's weird when you bump your head a few times, maybe exploring options that are not your plan A and are not necessarily your strengths.

"You have options as a batter, and each batter's options will be quite different. But it™s about really committing to those options and backing them.

"And if it comes off, it's fantastic. But if it doesn't come off, at least you can sleep a bit better at night knowing you stuck to your strengths and to your options."

The 29-year-old also praised the efforts of fellow centurions Quinton de Kock and Rassie van der Dussen for setting the perfect platform for him to launch.

The Proteas eventually posted a total of 428-5, another World Cup record, before claiming a 102-run victory to kick-start their campaign in India.

"We're known to start pretty slowly, be it in a series or maybe world events and things like that, so we put a lot of emphasis to start well and play the same cricket we've been playing that managed to sneak us into this competition," Markram added.

"It's nice for us to be able to go through the gears as a unit. I think a lot of credit has to go to Rassie and Quinny for setting up that platform.

"It's hard work always up front. They bowled well at the back end of the powerplay. I think there's a lot of passion in this team to give our absolute all at this World Cup and see how far it can get us."

The Proteas batters will look to keep the momentum going in their second encounter at the global tournament when they take on Australia in Lucknow on Thursday.