SA vs IND 2018: Playing India was a 'Massive Step Up'- Aiden Markram

Aiden Markram burst onto Test cricket with a bang against Bangladesh and Zimbabwe, but playing India was ‘a massive step-up’ as opined by the opener.

Markram registered five and 34 in the first Test and will be keen to improve the statistics.

“It was a massive step up. There’s a reason why they are the No 1 team in the world – they have quality players in all departments. They tick all the boxes, and they have come here to compete, which is great. For me as a young guy, it is awesome,” Markram said while talking to media.

Markram was undone by the beauty of delivery in the first innings but got a good start in the second dig. He along with Dean Elgar provided a good star, but the middle-order couldn’t capitalise on it.

“You have a game plan according to the wicket, and you might have to adapt to certain pitches. I didn’t want to lose the intensity that I bat with; it’s something I keep close to me (as) a gauge often. I generally feel when I’m batting at the right intensity, I move a bit better and my positions are stronger; that’s something I challenge myself to achieve. It starts with training. Luckily we have a great attack to face, and it’s never easy,” 23-year-old Markram stated.

Talking about his opening partner Dean Elgar, Markram admitted he helps him to keep calm.

Markram further admitted it’s more about keeping the mind fresh than training long about getting only two days practice before the second Test.

“For both sides, it’s just about making sure you’re nice and fresh. It’s quite an exhilarating event, the first Test – very up and down. So, it’s about making sure the mind is fresh and being ready to go into battle,” he said.

Markram revealed the pitch would be good for batting and it can be a high scoring match.

Markram is happy for Kagiso Rabada, who will lead the pace attack in the absence of Dale Steyn. Rabada is currently the no one ranked Test bowler. Markram further mentioned Rabada had always stepped up when his side needed him.

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