Dolphins' Andile a go-to man in pressure moments

11 November 2015 - 03:21 By Khanyiso Tshwaku

Off-spinner Prenelan Subrayen may be the highest wicket-taker in the Ram Slam T20 challenge, but seamer Andile Phehlukwayo has assumed the mantle of the ice man in the Dolphins lineup. The 19-year-old son of a domestic worker guided the Dolphins to a one-run win over the Highveld Lions last week when he defended 13 off the final over.He also did it against the Titans in their opening game when he conceded a miserly four runs in the penultimate over against a rampaging Albie Morkel.Subrayen's eight wickets at a rate of 15.12 overshadow Phehlukwayo's four at 24, but that does not tell the story of the latter's work at the end of an innings.He has twice delivered in pressure spells and his ability to respond to those situations has been noticed by former Dolphins and Proteas all-rounder Jon Kent.He said Phehlukwayo's natural bowling ability had helped him adapt quickly, which would also see him thrive when West Indies star Dwayne Bravo arrives next week to join the Dolphins."Bravo's not someone who has shied away from the pressure of the death overs and Andile has also shown that responsibility in the pressure moments, which is a massive thing for a young player," said Kent."It is a massive plus to his mental approach as that means he's not looking to hide when the pressure is on. He's done the business recently and there's belief in him."You have to be accepting of the fact that you're going to travel at some stage, but you need to stick to your guns," he said.Former Dolphins and Zimbabwe international all-rounder Neil Johnson said Phehlukwayo's determination to succeed as a death bowler should not be a surprise."Andile's shown a lot of guts and determination. He looks like someone who is up for the fight and he's hungry for success."That's half the battle won. He's got the requisite skill set to succeed, plus his physique will keep him in the game for a while."When he wants to, he can get the ball to swing and has the clever changes of pace."..

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