Marques Ackerman finally reaping rewards after maiden Test call-up

By Benjamin Leshoro
5th October 2026

Hollywoodbets Dolphins batter Marques Ackerman says he might have received his Test call-up later in his career, but believes he still has something to offer in international cricket.

Ackerman is the only uncapped player in Shukri Conrad’s 18-player preliminary squad ahead of the first match against Australia starting this week, and at 30-years-old is finally reaping just rewards after some consistent performances on the domestic front.

He says having been through the system in South African cricket, he’s ready to grab the opportunity with both hands and prove that delayed does not always mean denied.

"Yeah look there's also a lot of good youngsters coming through that are putting in some really good performances which is exciting for cricket in South Africa in general but I think I've been through every single part of the pipeline,” Ackerman said.

“So, I feel like I've been the guy that can tell you about the pipeline in South Africa so I think at the end of the day it's a dream to play for South Africa and hopefully that dream can come true for me.

“I think it's a lesson for the guys that do get a little bit older that it's never too late and it's certainly not too late for me too, I feel like I still have a lot to offer in the game."

READ: Olympic Games hopeful Shamel Seleka reacts to second place at SA champs

Ackerman says he’s had ambitions of playing Test cricket his entire life, and believes this is the holy grail of the international game.

"Growing up watching Test cricket, you know that for me is obviously the ultimate goal, the proper test of skill and patience and all of that,” he added.

“Growing up playing backyard cricket, we always used to play test cricket, bat multiple times and both innings and stuff. So, I think the love for four day cricket or test cricket is something that I keep really close to my heart."

He revealed that he has a long-standing relationship with Proteas coach Shukri Conrad, who called him directly during the 1st Class Series to inform him of his selection to the national team.

He pointed to Conrad and the likes of Wandile Gwavu and Quinton Friend as coaches who have helped make him the player he is today.