Exclusive: Pollock Backs Proteas' WTC Final Spot Amid Criticism

With South Africa already leading the two-match Test series 1-0 against Pakistan, the Proteas made notable changes to their lineup for the Newlands Test. Tony de Zorzi’s injury forced Ryan Rickelton to open, with Wiaan Mulder batting at No. 3. Keshav Maharaj returned from injury, while 18-year-old Kwena Maphaka debuted on what is anticipated to be a batter-friendly surface.

Former South African fast bowler Shaun Pollock shared his thoughts on the Proteas’ position in the World Test Championship (WTC) Final, Mulder’s promotion, and Maphaka’s debut on a challenging pitch.

Pitch at Newlands: A Better Showing?

The Newlands surface faced criticism last year after the New Year’s Test against India concluded in three days, with the ICC rating the pitch “below average.” Following Day 1 of the current Test, where South Africa ended on 316/4, Pollock offered his perspective:

"I don’t think the surface was bad today. Surfaces in Joburg or Pretoria are spicier and have steeper bounce, but I think we need to learn to bowl on batter-friendly pitches. Initially, there were a few edges that didn’t carry, but overall, after the first day, I’m happy with how it played."

Kwena Maphaka’s Test Debut

Maphaka, who made his debut in all three formats this year, became the youngest Test debutant for South Africa since Paul Adams. The teenager has played just three first-class matches, raising eyebrows about his early promotion.

Pollock expressed his excitement: "I’m excited for him... shame, he’s only played three first-class games. It’s a baptism of fire on a surface not conducive to seam movement, but he’s an incredible talent for the future. Ideally, he would have liked more experience at the first-class level, but as far as raw ability is concerned, he’s unbelievable."

Criticism of Proteas’ WTC Final Spot

South Africa secured their place in the WTC Final after defeating Pakistan in Centurion. However, some, including Michael Vaughan and Darren Lehmann, questioned whether the Proteas deserved their spot, citing an “easier schedule” and fewer Tests played in the cycle.

Pollock dismissed the criticism, pointing out that the ICC determines the schedule: "You can only play who is put before you, simple as that. They’ve earned the points, and the standings show they’ve won enough games to get in [Final]. South Africa didn’t organize the fixtures, they just had to play the opponents scheduled."

Wiaan Mulder at No. 3: A Controversial Call

In a surprising move, captain Temba Bavuma announced that Mulder would bat at No. 3, a position typically reserved for specialist batters. Mulder, primarily a middle-order all-rounder, managed just five runs off 18 deliveries before being dismissed.

Pollock was critical of the decision: "We need to get to the bottom of this selection at No. 3. I don’t understand the reasoning. There’s been a lot of chopping and changing recently, and if they believe he’s the long-term option, they need to give him time in that position."

Comparing Mulder to the legendary Jacques Kallis, Pollock noted: "Jacques eventually settled at No. 4, and I see what they’re trying to do—perhaps balance the team better. If Mulder can secure the spot and perform like a top-order batter, it would be ideal. But he still has to prove himself against quality international bowling."

Pollock also highlighted Mulder’s improvement during his County stint in England: "The County circuit sharpened his technique significantly, but consistency against international attacks will be the ultimate test."