Jo’burg Super Kings captain shares insights on staying at the top ahead of SA20 opener
As he nears his 41st birthday, South African cricketer Faf Du Plessis continues to defy age with his remarkable fitness and batting performances. Preparing to lead the Jo’burg Super Kings (JSK) in their SA20 Season 3 opener against MI Cape Town in Johannesburg, Du Plessis reflected on how constant evolution has been the key to maintaining his form and fitness over the years.
Speaking to ESPNCricinfo ahead of the much-anticipated clash, Du Plessis shared his philosophy: “You have to evolve. Over the last three years, my batting has undergone significant changes. I am always striving to improve, and the same applies to my training routines. Things are no longer the same as they were earlier in my career.”
Career-Best Performances in T20 Cricket
The results of Du Plessis’ adaptability speak volumes. In the last three years, the veteran batter has amassed over 4,100 runs in 127 T20 matches, averaging 36.32. His strike rate during this period has soared beyond 151, complemented by four centuries and 32 half-centuries.
The year 2024 marked a personal milestone for Du Plessis, with his highest-ever T20 run tally in a calendar year. He smashed 1,502 runs in 46 innings at an average of 35.76 and an impressive strike rate of 155.80, including a century and 14 fifties. His consistency, coupled with his ability to accelerate, has made him a standout performer even in the twilight of his career.
Smarter Training for Longevity
While his batting evolution has garnered attention, Du Plessis’ fitness regime has been equally pivotal. Despite competing in various leagues around the globe, he has managed to stay in exceptional shape. The key, he says, lies in smarter preparation.
“I understand my body much better now,” he explained. “There’s a misconception that you need to do a lot to maintain top fitness, but I believe it’s about being consistent and using your time wisely. I don’t necessarily do more, but I’ve learned to train smarter.”
Reflecting on how his routine has changed with age, Du Plessis said, “When you’re young, you can just wake up and go. Stretching, recovery, and nutrition weren’t priorities back then. Now, things like ice baths, a balanced diet, and proper sleep are crucial. Hamstring care, in particular, requires a different approach as you grow older.”
Competing with the Best
Du Plessis also highlighted how these adjustments have helped him remain competitive against younger athletes. “I can’t do the things I used to, like staying out late and performing the next morning. That’s not sustainable at this age. But these challenges motivate me to focus on the finer details—those small, incremental improvements that keep me at my best.”
In closing, he added, “Evolving is essential. It pushes me to stay competitive with the great players and younger athletes in the game. This journey has been incredibly rewarding.”
As he leads his team into another SA20 campaign, Faf Du Plessis remains a shining example of how dedication, adaptability, and smart preparation can sustain excellence in sports, regardless of age.
