Aiden Markram embraces 'fearless cricket' as Proteas launch new T20 era under Shukri Conrad

South Africa T20I captain Aiden Markram told the media on Friday that he wants the team to play with freedom, take the game on, and entertain as the Shukri Conrad era continues in the shortest format of the game.

Coach Shukri Conrad is in his second T20I series, having opened his account in the recently concluded Tri-Series against hosts Zimbabwe and New Zealand last month.

With Conrad's era in T20I cricket still in its infancy, many have wondered how the coach wants the side to play, and what the blueprint for the team will be heading into the 2026 T20 World Cup.

T20I captain Markram hinted at the team's new blueprint, citing freedom as one of the key elements that define their approach under Conrad.

"Already, we've had quite a few changes in personnel. Some guys have moved on. We've got some younger guys in the squad as well. So, it's really just about unlocking the guys to be the best versions of themselves — play with absolute freedom, take the game on, and entertain," Markram told the media on Friday.

"That's what T20 cricket is all about. We know that if we play good cricket against whichever team, it's going to be entertaining and a good show for people to watch. So that's where we're at mentally — trying to unlock that from the players themselves."

The opening two T20I matches of the series between South Africa and Australia are set to be played at Marara Oval, while the third and final T20I will be held at Cazaly's Stadium in Cairns.

The Proteas have never played at either stadium, a factor that could complicate preparations. However, given Conrad's Test team built a reputation for focusing only on controlling the controllables, there is little doubt the T20I side will follow suit.

"I'm not too sure (about the nature of the conditions), to be honest. There's not too much data to work with either. It's been quite a long time since a game was played here. So, we don't want to read too much into it — just take it in our stride on game day," said Markram.

"We’ll try to get a feel closer to the time. Obviously, we’re still two days out, so it’s a bit early to make a call. But we’ll assess things again tomorrow and hopefully start building a picture."

The first T20I is scheduled to get underway at 11.15am SAST at Marara Oval in Darwin.