Auckland: South Africa’s T20 and Test skipper, Faf du Plessis, termed Imran Tahir’s performance as one of the key reasons for Proteas’ success in the shortest format of the game over last year.
"He is the big reason we're been successful over the last few months," Sport24 quoted du Plessis as saying.
Although Du Plessis praised his entire bowling attack for bundling out the Black Caps for 107 in under 15 overs, he placed special emphasis on 'Man of the Match' Tahir.
Describing Tahir as a 'consistent' player, Du Plessis said that he was glad to have massive weapon like the 37-year-old in the team.
"He's just so consistent and as a captain that's a massive weapon. Even if teams get off to a really good start, the chances of him coming on and doing well is very high," Du Plessis said.
"He's not bowling a lot of bad balls anymore and he puts a lot of pressure on the opposition with his variety of skill," he added.
Tahir also became the second quickest bowler to grab 50 wickets (in 31 games), after Sri Lanka's Ajantha Mendis who reached the milestone in 26 T20Is.
The two sides will now head into five-match ODI series beginning Sunday at Seddon Park, Hamilton.
