Ryan Rickelton poised for new role in T20 batting order

In the absence of Reeza Hendricks, who was dropped for this tour down under, Rickelton will almost certainly be paired up with young Lhuan-dre Pretorius at the top.

Only 13 matches into his career, he’s now having to play a leadership role against the number two-ranked team in the world.

"I am still trying to establish myself in the T20 side from my own personal point of view. Luckily, there is additional experience around me from guys like Aiden Markram and Rassie van der Dussen.

"This series is a big opportunity for me to claim that opening spot for future matches to come," said Rickleton. 

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This series is one of three major ones that South Africa will be involved in, as they prepare for the T20 World Cup next year.

Following Australia they’ll jet off to England for another white ball tour, before an all-format trip to India in November and December.

The Aussies won both of the last two T20 series against the Proteas, while the last time South Africa won a T20 series in Australia was back in the 2018/19 season.

The 29-year-old says they’re on a mission to tip the scales in their favour.

"The opportunity to win a series in Australia does not come around very often, so we are looking to make the most of it.

"We look forward to representing our country and overcoming the Aussies yet again."

Although a different format of the game altogether, the recent win over their opponents in the test arena is sure to put wind in the Proteas’ sails.

Rickelton says it has instilled belief in the team that anything can be achieved.