Johannesburg: Former South Africa batting great Hashim Amla has thrown his weight behind rising star Connor Esterhuizen, predicting a bright international future for the young batter following his rapid rise across formats.
Esterhuizen’s career has surged dramatically over the past month. The 24-year-old was named Player of the Series during South Africa’s tour of New Zealand, impressing in his maiden outing for the Proteas. His performances in Aotearoa also earned him a call-up to the Indian Premier League, where Gujarat Titans signed him as a replacement for England’s Tom Banton.
Having worked closely with Esterhuizen at MI Cape Town and in domestic cricket with the Lions, Amla highlighted the youngster’s hunger to learn and adaptability as key strengths.
“He was always eager to learn and try new things,” Amla said. “To succeed across formats, a player needs mental flexibility—the ability to switch plans quickly and adapt to different match situations. Connor has shown that from early on.”
Amla, who amassed over 18,000 international runs, believes Esterhuizen’s ability to process and apply information sets him apart from his peers. He noted that the youngster’s consistent performances in both four-day and T20 cricket made his national call-up inevitable.
“He’s been scoring runs consistently, so it was only a matter of time. He represents the modern-day cricketer—technically sound but also capable of powerful stroke play,” Amla added.
Drawing comparisons, Amla likened Esterhuizen’s potential to that of England’s emerging wicketkeeper-batter Jamie Smith, whom he observed during his stint with Surrey County Cricket Club. According to Amla, players with strong technique and aggressive scoring ability are increasingly valuable in all formats of the game.
On Esterhuizen’s role in the batting order, Amla emphasized his versatility. The youngster has been used as a finisher at MI Cape Town but has also batted higher up the order for the Pretoria Capitals.
“He can bat anywhere from one to six, which is rare. That flexibility makes him extremely valuable,” Amla said, suggesting that the No. 4 position could be ideal as it bridges the top and middle order.
With growing experience, IPL exposure, and backing from one of South Africa’s finest batters, Esterhuizen appears well on course to establish himself as a key figure in international cricket.
