Fast bowler Kagiso Rabada has said that South Africa must strive to carry forward the momentum they've gained by handsomely winning the first ODI against Sri Lanka in Dambulla. Rabada played a big part in ensuring a much-needed triumph for his team in the first game and now he has urged Proteas to not take their foot off the paddle. 

Ahead of the second game, Rabada said, “It is important, It’s great to get off to a good start and we are on front foot. We are looking to carry on with this momentum. We are just looking to continue with our game plans. Try and make it 2-0 heading to Kandy which will give us a massive advantage.”

"We have executed our game plans whether it is the batters or bowlers and that is the reason why we have come on top, At the moment no. We are working and thinking about this series. That is the priority. Obviously, you will be working towards the World Cup and you want to get to a certain level at the World Cup and you want to play at your best during the World Cup,” 

Rabada also expressed that he is liking bowling on surfaces that are better than the ones he encountered in the Test matches and said, “Test matches were completely different. They were just sand pits, It’s completely different now as they have good bounce and it’s more like a one-day wicket.”

Since Morne Morkel’s retirement and Dale Steyn’s injury-ridden past few years, Rabada has taken over as the leader of the pack. Rabada, however, played down the position saying,  “I have not come to grips with the fact that I am the leader. I don’t see it that way. I have a responsibility towards the team as the opening bowler,” he explained. “I don’t see myself as a much of a leader. All I know is that I have got some responsibility. If someone wants help and I am all out to give that. We have some quality bowlers coming through.”

(Inputs from Wisden India)