Tristan Stubbs eyes number three Test spot with optimism

Tristan Stubbs, emerging as a rising star in South Africa's T20I squad, aims to solidify his position in the Test team, with management endorsing his potential in the crucial number three batting slot.

His unexpected inclusion in the Proteas' Test squad for the upcoming series against West Indies highlights his rapid ascent.

Despite making a mark in 26 T20Is, Stubbs has limited experience in ODIs and Tests, having played just one of each.

Proteas Test coach Shukri Conrad has expressed confidence in Stubbs, emphasizing his belief that the 23-year-old has the skills to thrive in this new role.

In an exclusive interview with SportsBoom.com, Stubbs expressed gratitude for Conrad's support, acknowledging the weight of expectations that come with batting at number three in Test cricket.

He views this opportunity as a significant challenge but remains optimistic about his prospects.

“Batting number three for the Test side is a huge opportunity and challenge and I’m very thankful to the coach for backing me,” Stubbs told SportsBoom.com in an exclusive interview.

“Any time someone praises you like that, you don’t ever want to let them down. But I’ve dealt with a lot of expectation in my career before.”

Conrad, praising Stubbs as more than just a limited-overs player, believes he can contribute substantially across all formats for South Africa.

Reflecting on Stubbs' performance under pressure during the T20 World Cup, Conrad highlighted his ability to influence games decisively.

Conrad said: “He is one of our best batsmen and I believe he is unfairly seen as just being a white-ball player. The way he came in under pressure in the T20 World Cup and commanded his space, he imprinted himself on games.”