Steyn has 2020 vision
Dale Steyn may have hung up his Test whites but he is determined to play his way into the Proteas’ plans for the forthcoming T20I World Cup in Australia, writes SM HUSSAIN.
Dale Steyn may have hung up his Test whites but he is determined to play his way into the Proteas’ plans for the forthcoming T20I World Cup in Australia, writes SM HUSSAIN.
While sporting events around the world are being cancelled or postponed due to the threat posed by the coronavirus pandemic, South African cricket continues – arguably ignorantly.
Thursday’s first ODI between the Proteas and India at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharmasala was delayed due to wet conditions.
This month’s T20I series between the Asia XI and World XI in Bangladesh has been postponed due to the threat posed by the coronavirus outbreak.
Captain Quinton de Kock has suggested the Proteas will still shine the ball during this month’s ODI series against India, despite the health implications.
India and South Africa will contest three ODIs this month. The series opener will be played in Dharamsala on Thursday.
Fit-again Proteas batsman Aiden Markram is approaching a potential return to the national set-up as if he has never played for Proteas in the past.
Fast bowler Daryn Dupavillon was definitely not expecting to be in the Proteas XI for Sunday’s third and final ODI against Australia at Senwes Park in Potchefstroom.
Former Proteas batsman Jonty Rhodes has effectively reserved judgement on whether former captain AB de Villiers should return for the T20 World Cup in Australia later this year.
Head coach Mark Boucher will be hard pressed to place batsman Faf du Plessis back in the middle order during this month’s ODI series against India.
Proteas all-rounder Jon-Jon Smuts is looking forward to the challenge of playing India on the sub-continent.
India’s Virat Kohli is among the best players of his generation and might be the best international captain on the scene right now.
Quinton de Kock and Temba Bavuma have forged an understanding of one another’s game in the Proteas Test middle order. That relationship makes them the Proteas’ ideal opening partnership.
Craig Lewis and Wade Pretorius wrap up the Proteas’ ODI whitewash of Australia and discuss the batsmen stepping up, questions going forward and whether Quinton De Kock should consider giving up the gloves.
Following the ODI series whitewash over Australia, ANDRE HUISAMEN looks at the winners and losers from the series.