Amla: thrived in adversity

I always felt that, given the opportunity - after I'd done well at Test cricket - although one-day cricket is hugely difference, the basics stay the same.

Hashim Amla
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Hashim Amla has provided South Africa with a rare success story during a miserable NatWest Series.

The Proteas trail England 4-0 and head for the final game in Cardiff on Wednesday staring a whitewash, and the loss of their number two spot in the world rankings, in the face.

Amid the carnage of four consecutive losses, Amla has taken advantage of his unexpected run at the top of the order.

The 25-year-old has 29 Tests under his belt already, having made his debut almost four years ago.

But he did not begin his one-day international career until March and was only parachuted into the team to face England for the third game of the NatWest Series because of Graeme Smith's tour-ending tennis elbow injury.

Scores of 46 and 34 have followed in his two outings as a limited-overs opener so far - contributions which have left Amla, more accustomed to number three in Test cricket, with mixed feelings.

"The early signs are good. I've managed to get two decent knocks," he said.

"But unfortunately, I haven't kicked on yet - which, in international cricket, you have to do if you want to win games.

Disappointment

"I've had good starts and managed to contribute somewhat, but it's been a disappointment not to kick on and get a big knock."

Amla, meanwhile is not one to take issue over his belated entrance into the one-day arena; he is simply determined to make the most of the opportunity now it has arisen.

"I'm really happy that I've got this chance," he added.

"From the start, I knew it was going to be whether Graeme was fit enough or not.

"It's given me a great opportunity to try to get acclimatised to one-day cricket.

"I hadn't done as well as I would like to over the past six seasons in the one-day format of the game back home - so I wasn't really surprised or frustrated (to be omitted).

"I think if you're honest you don't necessarily 'believe' until you try a game and succeed in it.

"I always felt that, given the opportunity - after I'd done well at Test cricket - although one-day cricket is hugely difference, the basics stay the same.

"I felt that if I applied myself to the basics and had a good game plan, I ought to be able to be successful."