Patrick Kruger credits SA20 intensity for setting him on Proteas path

The 29-year-old made his Proteas debut against the West Indies in May this year and has now played four T20Is and has generally acquitted himself well on the highest stage.

The all-rounder is currently in Abu Dhabi preparing for the Proteas' two T20Is against Ireland on Friday and Sunday, and touched on the SA20 tournament that has breathed new life into South African domestic cricket.

Kruger played a pivotal role to help the Sunrisers retain their trophy in season two and said the intensity of the domestic competition made sure he was ready when he got the call for higher honours.

He told reporters: "I'm happy to be where I am, which is playing for my country, something I've always wanted to do.

"The SA20 played a big role. It sets you up for the standard that's needed, prepares you for how quickly the game moves and the intensity of international cricket.

"If I'd come into (the Proteas) having not played SA20 it would have been tougher."

Proteas white-ball coach Rob Walter has made it known that the national management want to build depth in the squad, especially in the all-rounder positions.

Kruger is competing with the likes of Wiaan Mulder and Andile Phehlukwayo for a spot in the line-up to compete with the rested Marco Jansen.

"It brings the best out of me because there are guys coming for a spot and you have to work to be the number one pick as an all-rounder," Kruger said about the competition in the squad.

"In the past year it is something I've been doing more. I don't want to think about it as competition. I want to do what I have to do, to give myself the best chance to perform and get picked."

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