Reeza Hendricks open to reality of Proteas swansong

The 35-year-old scored an impressive 117 runs off just 63 deliveries as South Africa clinched the three-match T20I Series vs Pakistan with a seven-wicket victory at SuperSport Park last night, and still one match to come at Wanderers this evening.

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The Lions opening batsman was candid in his response when asked about his change in form following a recent lull.

''No, I wouldn't say I'm relieved. It is obviously nice to score and contribute for the country. I did it tonight but definitely not a sign of relief. A proud moment, I am happy with what I did. I am trying to approach every game and every series with a sense of pride and confidence because you just don't know it could be the last. So I try to enjoy it as much as I can. I am happy to have scored runs today,'' Hendricks. 

Usually a rather reserved character, Hendricks leaped for joy and cut an unfamiliar emotional figure upon crossing the 100-mark, which he explained was down to a number of factors on the night.

 ''Yeah, obviously it is a privilege and honour to play for the country. To reach a milestone, two figures in a T20 game, I obviously dreamt about it, to achieve is another thing. To have my mom and dad to watch me, I think it is a moment where my emotions came out,'' added Hendricks.

With the pressure off at the DP World Wanderers in Johannesburg tonight, following the Proteas' first bilateral T20I series victory since white-ball coach Rob Walter took over in January last year, Hendricks admits this was one monkey they needed to get off their backs.

''We had a discussion as a team and as a senior group, so to say we really want to step up and walk out with a series win. Fortunately we managed to do it in the first two games. Now one game to go,  we won't take it likely, we will go out there and try and win that game as well,'' he expressed.

Having been dropped from the One Day International squad for the upcoming three-match 50-over series against Pakistan, the Joburg Super Kings star insists the disappointment thereof was not used as fuel for his instrumental knock in Centurion.