'There's no time to doubt your skill' – De Klerk on thriving under pressure

"T20 cricket is a funny game, a lot can happen very quickly. It's always nice when you get over the line," says Nadine de Klerk.

In a brief chat with Cricbuzz, the South African all-rounder talks about the art of finishing – how she approaches it, the learnings from it and more.

There has been a drastic improvement in your game over the last couple of years, both as a batter and a bowler, a death overs specialist. What's gone behind that improvement?

The role I play is about making an impact. Whether in the Big Bash, WPL or for South Africa, it's about what the team needs at any stage. Whether you only bowl 10 balls or face eight, it's about being brave, aggressive and impacting the game positively.

What is the secret sauce of thriving in the death?

You have to be brave. There's no time to question your skill or have a doubt. Clarity is key when you walk out. It's very much a mental side – you need to take the game on immediately because you don't have balls to settle. The same with the ball – how do you execute under pressure when batters are trying to get hold of you?

What does trusting your skills really mean when a batter is coming hard at you?

You understand you're going to travel sometimes. Even if you bowl well, batters are good and you'll get punished. It's about understanding that this will happen. One day you might get smacked, the next you finish with two for eight. T20 is a funny game. You train for those moments. It's also understanding it won't happen every time – and that's OK.

Could you deconstruct this with a specific scenario?

When you walk out, it's about clarity and not thinking too much. Sometimes thinking too much kills you. Let your instincts take over – when a ball is in a certain area, you know where to hit it. Look for the gaps, commit 100% to your plan. If you're confident bowling six yorkers, run in and execute. Stick to your strengths.

What's the most valuable advice you've received from Marizanne Kapp?

She reminds us: remember what you're good at and keep doing that. Play your way, regardless of the situation. It doesn't help if I try to bat like her because that's not what I'm good at. Everybody's different.

Have you ever offered advice to her?

(Laughs) No. The only thing I'd tell her is just do what you do – she's so good at it.

For death overs, is it better to be a jack of all trades or master of a few?

A bit of both. But sometimes trying too many things is your downfall. I narrow it down to three or four shots I'm comfortable with against spin and seam and stick to those. Keep it simple. Same with the ball – stick to strong areas, adapt if it doesn't work on the day.

Is there one skill you trust more than the other?

It's day by day. Being an all-rounder helps – when your bowling dips, you have batting to compensate and vice versa.

What has led to your improvement over the last year?

It's more from a mindset point of view. I struggled earlier with the finisher role and clarity. I cleared up things mentally – confidence and bravery when you need 12 runs with three overs left. Being trusted with that role is massive. The biggest change has been mental, not skill-based.