Interim team director Enoch Nkwe has implored the Proteas to be courageous and respond well in this week’s second Test against India in Pune, after Sunday’s heavy defeat in the series opener in Visakhapatnam.

The visiting bowlers were chastened by double-centurion Mayank Agarwal and centurion Rohit Sharma in the first innings. Sharma amassed another ton in the second. His twin tons flanked centuries from Proteas pair Quinton de Kock and Dean Elgar.

‘I’m proud of how the boys responded after losing the toss. That can play around with your mind. We showed a lot of character and determination‚ we stretched ourselves,’ said Nkwe.

‘One thing I want this team to have is the courage to back themselves and not shy away. In the first innings we did that brilliantly.’

Nkwe currently occupies the team director post in an acting capacity, after head coach Ottis Gibson and team manager Mohammed Moosajee’s roles were dissolved earlier this year. A permanent team director will be appointed before the series against England later this year.

‘My biggest drive is to make a difference in human beings. Right now I’m in this position and I’m grateful for that,’ he added.

‘It’s not just about the now. It’s important that we define the character of the team in the next couple of months. We’ve got to ensure the puzzle comes together.

‘This is a great place to see that‚ what sort of character does the team have and what areas do we need to look at and improve.’

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