Elgar praises changeroom favourite Erwee: 'His story is deeper than just cricket'

One of the stories of South Africa's memorable 198-run triumph in the second Test against New Zealand was the contribution of 32-year-old Sarel Erwee. 

It seems like ages ago now given how much has happened since, but Erwee's 108 on the opening day of the Test set the tone of what was to come for the visitors. 

Kyle Verreynne's 136* - also a maiden Test century - followed in the second innings, while Kagiso Rabada's match figures of 8/106 saw him bag the man of the match award. 

Series tied?? Thank you @BLACKCAPS ?? #NZvSA #BePartOfIt pic.twitter.com/H71yHWOlCZ

It was a clinical team performance of the highest order, and one that skipper Dean Elgar said was "right up there" in terms of his own personal highs as captain given the context of having lost the first Test so heavily. 

And while there were contributions from the entire starting Xi in the second Test, Elgar revealed just how special this moment was for Erwee, who came close to retiring from the game just 28 months ago with a Proteas opportunity - at that stage - nothing more than a pipe dream. 

"I think his story is a lot deeper than just playing cricket," said Elgar after play on Tuesday.

"He is a little bit older and he understands the concept of hard work. I think he came close, not too long ago, to giving up the game and that would have been a massive loss.

"He is a bit of a favourite in our changeroom, which is great, and he's a good team man."

Elgar also praised Erwee's influence on the broader squad, which he himself has been a part of for over a year before this series without earning a cap.

"He's always looking to influence, and it's never about him but always what is best for the side," said Elgar. 

"To me, it's not surprising that he has come in and done well.