George Linde finds inspiration in Harry Maguire for Proteas' T20 World Cup charge

George Linde has had his fair share of highs and lows in a Proteas shirt. He has been dropped, sometimes unfairly, and has endured forgettable moments on the field; yet, he has also been a superstar, winning matches for his country.

Perhaps what stung the most was being omitted from the national side for reasons he felt were unjust. However, the spin-bowling all-rounder has made a complete resurgence and is now a key player for the Proteas in the ongoing 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.

His journey back involved returning to domestic cricket in Cape Town and competing in global leagues to prove he could still "dance with the big boys". During that period, Linde paid close attention to Manchester United’s Harry Maguire, who has also faced significant trolling on social media.

The fact that the defender remained at Manchester United through difficult times to emerge as a star once more is something Linde has noted with inspiration.

“I do look up to a guy called Harry Maguire. He’s a Manchester United player, and I’m a big United supporter. To see where he was in his career and where he is now — he got quite a lot of stick, and it was the same with me,” Linde said.

“I felt we were in the same boat in a way, and just to see him go through and actually get through it ... he’s one of the best defenders now. I always look up to someone like that, and I do see him as a real role model.”

Linde is also motivated by his two sons, a factor that pushes him to perform for his country and make his family proud.

“I’ve got two boys now. It’s changed my life a lot, and it’s a good thing,” he said.

“I’m very proud to be their father. For them to watch me play gives me a little extra motivation.”

As one of the two out-and-out spinners in the team alongside Keshav Maharaj and part-timer Aiden Markram, Linde will be crucial for South Africa in the India and Sri Lanka-based tournament. While subcontinent wickets often favour spin, Linde understands that pitches in India can also be flat, making life difficult for bowlers. He believes proper planning with Maharaj and the management can overcome batter-friendly conditions.

“Conditions in India are sometimes tough for bowlers. It’s all about planning and trying to just bowl your best ball,” he said.

“Kesh is the best for a reason. It’s amazing to have him by my side.

"We are the same type of bowler but very different, so we bounce ideas off each other. It’s awesome to have him here because he’s experienced a lot of different conditions.”

South Africa play their tournament opener on Monday when they take on Canada at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The clash is set to kick off at 3:30pm.