IPL-bound Ngidi relishing playing in front of even small crowds

South Africa fast bowler Lungi Ngidi is hopeful even a small crowd will prove inspirational for the Proteas during the three-match ODI series against Bangladesh.

Bangladesh will take on the hosts in the first ODI on Friday at SuperSport, although only a small crowd will be allowed to attend.

This after South Africa’s government extended the national state of disaster, which means only 2000 people are allowed into the facility in Centurion, as well as the Wanderers in Johannesburg.

SuperSport Park will host the first and third matches, while the ‘Pink ODI’ will take place on Johannesburg on Sunday.

In addition, players, media, and security all count toward the 2000 tally, while Cricket South Africa’s various commercial partners will also be provided with seats.

For Ngidi, who played in front of a small crowd of vaccinated supporters during the CSA One-Day Cup matches last weekend, any kind of home support is better than playing in front of an empty stadium.

Why no Broad or Anderson?

Well bowled, Shane

It was a batting masterclass the last time we came up against Bangladesh on home soil

Watch the full highlights here: https://t.co/d5CH9Dt3is#SAvBAN #BePartOfIt pic.twitter.com/1QIs9jgJOF

— Cricket South Africa (@OfficialCSA) March 15, 2022

“It was great having some supporters there Friday,” he told the media on Tuesday.

“It makes a massive difference, for certain players it really gets them going, brings out their ‘A games.’ I enjoy performing for people. To put on a performance for them, it makes me happy, your energy levels never drop.”

Whilst the Proteas began light preparation ahead of the first ODI on Tuesday, Ngidi was relishing a return to action after missing the Test series in New Zealand with a back injury.

He