‘He can do lot of damage at backend of innings’ - Kobus Olivier emphasizes Curtis Campher’s impact as batter for Ireland

Ireland are squaring off in their first group stage match against Sri Lanka, both of whom made it past the First Round qualifiers with sublime performances in the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia. The Irish national side looks hungrier than ever to better their record in the marquee tournament after winning two of the three fixtures in the qualifiers.

Young sensation Curtis Campher has displayed fine performances in his two outings for the side scoring 99 runs (first two games) that included a match winning knock of 72* runs off just 32 balls. However, he couldn't do much in Ireland's first Super 12 game against Sri Lanka. Former cricketer Kobus Olivier was delighted with his journey from South Africa to playing a vital role in the Irish national side.

"I have been following him (Campher) since he has been playing U15 cricket for South Africa and then in 21, he started playing for Ireland with his Irish passport. His batting took a while and didn’t get any scores in the beginning but lately he has grown his stature, that innings of 72 not out against Scotland that won them the game, it was just a phenomenal innings,” said Olivier on BatBricks7 presents Run Ki Runneeti show on CricTracker.

Curtis Campher could have huge impact on game: Kobus Olivier

The former player believes Campher can do a lot of damage at the backend of the innings for Ireland. However, Olivier also added that Campher, who can also bowl for the side, could be targeted by rival batters.

“Especially at the backend of the innings, he can do a lot of damage to a team and with the small boundaries, he really hits the ball hard. He is a clean striker of the ball, likes to hit straight down the ground,” said Olivier.

“He has taken four (two) wickets, but his economy rate is over 8 and I think Sri Lanka batters will target him and he could be one of the bowlers they could go after. But he could have a huge impact on the game, I would think more with his batting than bowling,” he added.