On Thursday night Rossouw smashed an outstanding 96 not out in the 2nd T20 International against England to level the series.

The destructive batter has been in rich form for the best part of the last year and his maturity showed last night in the 58-run win at Sophia Gardens.

Rossouw said being able to play for the Proteas remains a big honour.

“After Brexit, I really put in some good performances in the T20 leagues I participated in and the national team's setup has backed me and selected me in this role.

“Representing your country is the proudest role you can fulfil. For me, today was a very emotional day. So I'm very happy.

“Things didn't go my way in the first T20 and I suspect I may have been overconfident based on the runs I scored in the season.

“I had to take my time today and I had to bat a little bit more sensibly. Once I found the pace of the wicket, it became easier and I found the confidence mode.

“Everyone wants to play to win a trophy and the Proteas have had a great last year and there's the need to build on the momentum leading into the World Cup.

“This is not the World Cup, but we're putting in some good performances from an individual and team perspective. The sky's the limit now.

“You have to have belief in yourself first before someone else can see it.

“I do believe in my ability, not necessarily to win a World Cup, because that is impossible. However, I can put in a performance that can help my team.”

England and the Proteas will battle it out from 15:30 in Southampton on Sunday in the series deciding 3rd T20 International.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport